GitHub


GitHub is a website and service that hosts and tracks changes in projects using Git, an open-source version control system. It provides distributed version control, access control, bug tracking, software feature requests, task management, and wikis for every project. Beyond programming, GitHub serves as a collaborative platform for developers to create, store, manage, and share their code.

  • Version Control: GitHub is primarily known for its role as a distributed version control system. Developers use it to track changes, collaborate on code, and manage different versions of their projects.
  • Collaboration: GitHub provides a platform for collaborative development. Multiple contributors can work on the same project simultaneously, making it easy to merge changes, review code, and resolve conflicts.
  • Open Source Projects: GitHub hosts a vast ecosystem of open-source projects. Developers can contribute to existing projects or create their own, fostering a global community of collaboration and innovation.
  • Issue Tracking and Bug Reporting: GitHub’s built-in issue tracking system allows developers to report and manage bugs, feature requests, and other project-related tasks. It streamlines communication between developers and users.
  • Documentation and Wikis: GitHub repositories often include documentation and wikis, providing essential information about the project. These resources help users understand how to use the software, contribute, and troubleshoot issues.

In summary, GitHub serves as a hub for code hosting, collaboration, and project management, benefiting developers, organizations, and the broader software community.

Training

LinkedIn Learning provides several GitHub Training resources that are helpful. Enterprise Applications recommends using GitHub Desktop when accessing GitHub.

GitHub Desktop 

Getting Started

GitHub Certificate

GitHub Access

Access to the Washington University Enterprise Subscription is restricted to GitHub users who hold an active WUSTL KEY as students, faculty, staff members, or WUSTL guests. When accessing code within the subscription, users should log in to their personal GitHub account and then proceed to the WashU organization. Authentication through the WUSTL Key Single Sign-On is necessary for navigating the organization. When using GitHub it should be noted that GitHub is not approved for confidential, HIPAA, or any protected information.

Request Access

Access to GitHub is provided within the Washington University Enterprise Subscription. Teams utilizing GitHub are typically assigned a new GitHub organization tailored to their specific needs. Each team is responsible for setting up the organization once it is provisioned. Upon provisioning, an owner will be assigned, granting them the ability to add other members to the organization.

Researchers and Labratories should request access to GitHub below.