Connecting Git with Personal Access Tokens | 02x00.04-02
TL;DR
GitHub no longer accepts account passwords for Git over HTTPS, so you authenticate with a personal access token. This guide explains source code management, Git and GitHub, why PATs are more secure, how to generate a token with the right scopes and how to use it when pushing and pulling.
On this page
What is Source Code Management?
Source Code Management (SCM) is the practice of tracking and managing changes to code throughout its lifecycle. It helps teams collaborate effectively on software projects by providing version control and workflow management.
What is Git?
Git is a distributed version control system designed to handle everything from small to very large projects with speed and efficiency. It allows multiple developers to work on the same codebase simultaneously and tracks changes made to files.
What is GitHub?
GitHub is a web-based platform built around Git, providing hosting for software development version control using Git. It adds additional features like collaboration tools, code review, issue tracking, and project management.
Why Use Personal Access Tokens (PATs)?
Personal Access Tokens (PATs) act as secure alternatives to passwords when accessing GitHub via the command line or third-party applications. They offer enhanced security and convenience in your Git workflow.
Generating a Personal Access Token
- Access GitHub Settings:
- Log in to your GitHub account.
- Go to Settings > Developer settings > Personal access tokens.
- Generate a New Token:
- Click on Generate new token.
- Add a note and select scopes (permissions).
- Click Generate token.
- Copy and securely store the token.
Using Personal Access Tokens
To use a PAT:
git remote set-url origin https://<your-token>@github.com/<username>/<repository>Replace
<your-token>with your PAT and
<username>/<repository>with your GitHub username and repository name. Then, use
git push -u origin mainto push changes.
Conclusion
Integrating Personal Access Tokens into your Git workflow simplifies authentication and enhances security. Start using PATs today to streamline your development process on GitHub.
Further Reading
Key takeaways 5
- Git tracks changes; GitHub hosts repositories and adds collaboration.
- GitHub requires tokens, not passwords, for Git over HTTPS.
- Personal access tokens can be limited in scope and expiration.
- Give each token only the permissions it needs.
- Store tokens in a credential manager, never in code.
Watch & learn
Frequently asked questions
What is a GitHub personal access token?
A personal access token (PAT) is a generated string that replaces your password when Git or the GitHub API authenticates, with permissions and an expiry date you choose.
How do I use a personal access token with Git?
When Git asks for your password over HTTPS, paste the token instead. A credential manager can store it so you do not need to enter it every time.
Should I use HTTPS with a token or SSH keys?
Both are secure. SSH keys are convenient for daily development on your own machine; tokens are useful for HTTPS access, scripts and fine-grained, expiring permissions.
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