Step-by-Step Guide: How to Install GitLab on Your Server

by Devop · 01/05/2024

Installing GitLab on your server can streamline your development workflow and enhance collaboration among team members. This step-by-step guide is designed to help you set up GitLab on your server, specifically targeting Ubuntu 22.04. By following this guide, you will learn everything from initial server preparation to integrating email services and securing your GitLab installation. Whether you’re migrating from an older version or starting fresh, this guide will ensure a smooth installation process and provide you with best practices for leveraging GitLab for DevOps.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

Understanding server preparation steps, including IP acquisition and security configurations, is critical for a successful GitLab installation.
Familiarizing yourself with GitLab’s dashboard and admin area is essential for effective configuration and management of your instance.
The installation process on Ubuntu 22.04 requires careful attention to dependencies, downloading scripts, and configuring the web server.
Post-installation configuration, such as setting the external URL and accessing the Rails console, is vital for ensuring GitLab runs smoothly.
Regular maintenance, including backups, monitoring, and security measures, is crucial for the long-term stability and security of your GitLab server.

Preparing Your Server for GitLab Installation

Acquiring Your Server’s Internet IP

Before diving into the GitLab installation, it’s crucial to acquire your server’s Internet IP address. This IP is the gateway through which users and services will interact with your GitLab instance. To find this information, log into your cloud provider’s console and navigate to the server’s details page.

Once you have your server’s IP, ensure that it’s accessible from the internet. This involves checking the inbound rules of your server’s security group to confirm that TCP port 80, which is used for HTTP traffic, is allowed. If it’s not, you’ll need to modify the security group settings to permit traffic on this port.

With your server’s IP in hand and the correct port configurations set, you’re laying the groundwork for a smooth GitLab setup.

Lastly, document your server’s IP address as you’ll need it for various configuration steps throughout the installation process. This includes setting up domain configurations and ensuring that your GitLab instance is reachable via the web.

Configuring Security Group Rules for TCP:80

Before diving into the GitLab installation, it’s crucial to ensure that your server’s security group rules are properly configured to allow traffic on TCP port 80. This is the default port for HTTP traffic, which GitLab uses for web access. Adjust your firewall settings to accept incoming connections on this port to enable users to reach your GitLab instance.

Ensure that the TCP:80 port is open and listening for incoming connections. This step is vital for the GitLab web interface to be accessible to users.

If you’re using iptables, a common rule to add would be:

For those behind a router, remember to set up port forwarding to direct HTTP traffic to your GitLab server. Additionally, if you’re aiming for a secure setup, consider redirecting HTTP to HTTPS to leverage SSL encryption. This is especially important if you plan to use GitLab Ultimate for its advanced features and enhanced security.

Here’s a quick checklist to review your TCP:80 configuration:

Open TCP:80 in security group rules
Adjust firewall settings to accept traffic
Set up port forwarding if behind a router
Redirect HTTP to HTTPS for secure connections

Connecting to Your Server and Retrieving GitLab Credentials

Once your server is ready, the next crucial step is to establish a connection and retrieve the necessary credentials for GitLab. Connect to your server using SSH or SFTP to ensure a secure link. Upon successful connection, you’ll need to locate the default username and password for GitLab, which are essential for initial access.

To streamline the process, here’s a quick checklist:

Ensure your server’s Internet IP is accessible.
Verify that TCP:80 is open in your security group rules.
Connect to your server via SSH/SFTP.
Retrieve the default GitLab credentials.

It’s important to secure your credentials and change the default password during the initial setup to maintain the integrity of your GitLab instance.

Once you have the credentials, you’re set to move forward with the domain configuration for GitLab, tailoring it to your specific needs. Remember, proper domain setup is key for seamless access and operation of your GitLab server.

Setting Up Domain Configuration for GitLab

Once your server is prepped and ready, it’s time to point your domain to your GitLab server. Configuring your domain is crucial as it affects how users will access your GitLab instance. Start by updating your DNS settings to create an A record that points to your server’s IP address. This ensures that when someone types in your domain, they’ll be directed to your GitLab server.

Next, you’ll need to update GitLab’s configuration file to recognize your domain. Navigate to /etc/gitlab/gitlab.rb and find the external_url line. Replace the placeholder with your actual domain name. For example, if your domain is mygitlab.com, the line should read external_url 'http://mygitlab.com'. After saving the changes, run sudo gitlab-ctl reconfigure to apply them.

It’s essential to ensure that your domain’s DNS records have fully propagated before proceeding. This can take anywhere from a few minutes to 48 hours.

Finally, verify that your domain is correctly pointing to your GitLab server by accessing GitLab through your web browser. If everything is set up correctly, you should see the GitLab login page.

Getting Started with GitLab

Accessing GitLab via Web Browser

Once your GitLab server is up and running, the next step is to access it through a web browser. Navigate to http://<YourServer'sInternetIP> or http://<YourDNS>, where <YourServer'sInternetIP> is the IP address of your server and <YourDNS> is the domain name if you’ve configured one. This will take you to the GitLab login page.

After reaching the login page, you’ll need to enter your username and password. If you’re logging in for the first time, you may need to retrieve or set up your credentials. Once authenticated, you’ll be directed to the GitLab dashboard. This is the starting point for all your GitLab activities, from managing projects to configuring settings.

It’s essential to ensure that your web server configuration is correct to avoid any access issues. If you’re using a proxy server, refer to the upstream documentation for proper setup.

Remember to check your web server’s SSL configuration if you’re planning to use HTTPS. A properly configured SSL certificate will ensure that your connection to GitLab is secure.

Logging in and Navigating the Dashboard

Once you’ve successfully logged into GitLab, you’ll be greeted by the dashboard. This is the nerve center of your GitLab experience, where you can manage projects, view recent activity, and access various features. Navigating the dashboard is intuitive, with a sidebar that provides quick access to all the main areas:

Projects: Your repositories and project-related activities.
Groups: Manage group-level information and access settings.
Activity: A stream of the latest updates across all your projects.
Milestones: Track progress and deadlines for your projects.

The dashboard is designed to give you a comprehensive overview of your work and the activity within your GitLab instance.

For a more detailed management view, the Admin Area is where you can configure system-wide settings, manage users, and perform other administrative tasks. It’s essential to familiarize yourself with this section to effectively manage your GitLab instance.

Configuring GitLab Admin Area

Once you’ve logged into GitLab, the Admin Area is your control center. Here, you can manage all aspects of your GitLab instance. Start by reconfiguring GitLab to apply any changes you’ve made to the gitlab.rb configuration file. This is crucial for the changes to take effect.

To reset the admin password, utilize the gitlab-rake command. This ensures that you always have access to your GitLab instance, even if you forget your credentials.

Next, verify the installation by checking the status of GitLab services with gitlab-ctl status. Confirm that GitLab is accessible via the configured URL. This step is essential to ensure that your GitLab instance is running smoothly.

Lastly, consider enabling GitLab KAS for enhanced integration with Kubernetes, by adding the necessary configuration in gitlab.rb. This step is optional but recommended for teams using Kubernetes.

Setting Language Preferences

GitLab supports a variety of languages, allowing users to select their preferred language for the interface. To set your language preference in GitLab, navigate to User Settings > Preferences. Here, you’ll find a dropdown menu where you can choose your desired language. Once selected, GitLab will display all menus, options, and documentation in the chosen language.

Supported Languages in GitLab:

English
Japanese (日本語)
Chinese (中文（简体）)

It’s important to note that setting your language preference enhances your user experience by providing a more personalized interface.

Remember to save your changes before exiting the preferences page. This simple customization can significantly improve your workflow within GitLab, especially if you’re working with a GitLab Language Server or other supported editor extensions.

Adding SSH Keys for Secure Operations

Adding SSH keys to your GitLab instance enhances security by enabling encrypted communication between your server and clients. Generate an SSH key pair on your local machine using ssh-keygen and then add the public key to your GitLab user profile. For GitLab CI/CD, you’ll need to add the private key as a CI/CD variable to your project.

To ensure proper authentication, configure your server’s SSH settings to recognize GitLab’s keys. Edit /etc/ssh/sshd_config to include:

PubkeyAuthentication yes
AuthorizedKeysFile %h/.ssh/authorized_keys

If AllowUsers is specified, add gitlab to the list and restart the sshd service. Test the connection with ssh -T git@your_server. For custom SSH connections, such as those on a non-standard port, update the GitLab user’s SSH config at /var/lib/gitlab/.ssh/config.

It’s crucial to verify that user SSH keys are being submitted correctly. Check the administrator logs at /var/lib/gitlab/log/gitlab-shell.log for confirmation.

Importing License for GitLab Enterprise Edition

After successfully setting up your GitLab instance, it’s time to unlock the full potential of GitLab by importing your GitLab Premium license. This step is crucial for accessing the advanced features and support that come with the Enterprise Edition.

To import your license, navigate to the Admin Area > License section of your GitLab dashboard. Here, you can upload your license file and activate your subscription. Ensure that the GITLAB_LICENSE_FILE environment variable points to the full path of your license file if you’re automating this process.

Once your license is imported, GitLab will validate it and grant you access to the premium features.

Remember to verify the activation of your license in the Admin Area to ensure that all features are available for use. If you encounter any issues during this process, the GitLab Documentation provides comprehensive guides and troubleshooting tips.

Installation Process for GitLab on Ubuntu 22.04

Installing Required Dependencies: Redis and PostgreSQL

Before diving into the GitLab installation, it’s crucial to set up the necessary dependencies. GitLab requires Redis and PostgreSQL to function properly. These systems handle background jobs and store the vast majority of data, respectively. Here’s how to install them on Ubuntu 22.04:

Update your package lists:
sudo apt-get update
Install Redis:
sudo apt-get install redis-server
Secure Redis by configuring the redis.conf file:
sudo nano /etc/redis/redis.conf
- Set supervised to systemd
- Bind Redis to 127.0.0.1 for local access
Install PostgreSQL:
sudo apt-get install postgresql postgresql-contrib
Create a GitLab-specific user and database in PostgreSQL:
sudo -u postgres createuser -D -A -P gitlab
sudo -u postgres createdb -O gitlab gitlabhq_production

Ensure that both Redis and PostgreSQL services are started and enabled to launch at boot.

After setting up Redis and PostgreSQL, verify that the services are running correctly. This foundational step is essential for a smooth GitLab experience.

Downloading and Executing the GitLab Installation Script

Once you’ve set up your server, it’s time to get GitLab itself up and running. Start by creating a dedicated directory for GitLab, such as /gitlab, to keep things organized. Download the GitLab installation script using curl or a similar tool. Before executing the script, it’s crucial to verify its integrity to ensure security. This can be done by comparing the downloaded script’s checksum with the one provided on GitLab’s official site.

After verification, execute the script to add GitLab’s official repository to your system. This repository contains all the necessary packages to install GitLab Community Edition (CE).

Finally, initiate the installation of GitLab CE with the command provided by the script. Remember to set the external URL for GitLab in the /etc/gitlab/gitlab.rb configuration file before reconfiguring GitLab to apply the new settings.

Running the GitLab Package Installation

Once you’ve downloaded the GitLab package, it’s time to run the installation. This step is crucial as it will set up GitLab on your server with all the necessary configurations. Ensure that all dependencies are installed before proceeding to avoid any interruptions during the setup process.

To start the installation, execute the following command:

sudo EXTERNAL_URL="http://yourdomain.com" apt-get install gitlab-ee

Replace http://yourdomain.com with the actual domain you’ve configured for your GitLab instance. The EXTERNAL_URL variable is essential as it informs GitLab about the address where it will be accessible.

After initiating the installation, GitLab will automatically configure itself with the provided external URL. It’s important to monitor the output for any errors or warnings that may arise.

Once the installation completes, verify that everything is set up correctly by running the GitLab environment information and check commands:

sudo gitlab-rake gitlab:env:info
sudo gitlab-rake gitlab:check

These commands will provide you with a snapshot of your GitLab environment and highlight any potential issues that need to be addressed.

Configuring the Web Server for GitLab

After installing GitLab, it’s crucial to configure your web server to properly serve GitLab pages. Nginx is often used as a reverse proxy for GitLab, handling incoming HTTP requests and forwarding them to GitLab Workhorse. The configuration of Nginx involves setting up server blocks and ensuring HTTPS is enabled for secure connections.

Web server configuration is a key step in making your GitLab instance accessible from the outside network. Below is a basic checklist for Nginx configuration:

Ensure server blocks are managed correctly.
Configure SSL/TLS for secure HTTPS connections.
Verify that all queries are being processed by GitLab Workhorse.

It’s important to follow the upstream documentation for detailed guidance on web server proxy settings.

Once you’ve configured the web server, you’ll be ready to move on to the next steps in setting up your GitLab instance, ensuring it’s secure and accessible for all users.

Configuring GitLab Post-Installation

Setting the External URL in GitLab Configuration

Configuring the external URL for your GitLab installation is a critical step that ensures your server is accessible via your custom domain. Start by logging into your server via SSH and editing the GitLab configuration file located at /etc/gitlab/gitlab.rb. Here, you’ll need to locate the [external_url](https://virtualizare.net/devops/how-to-update-your-gitlab-version-a-step-by-step-guide.html) line and update it with your domain name:

external_url "http://yourdomain.com"

After updating the external_url, save the file and reconfigure GitLab by running sudo gitlab-ctl reconfigure to apply the changes.

It’s also essential to integrate SSL to secure your GitLab server. If you’re using Nginx as a proxy, consider using Let’s Encrypt for free SSL certificates.

By setting the external URL correctly, you ensure that users can access GitLab through the web interface using the domain you’ve configured. This step is not just about accessibility but also about security, especially when integrated with SSL settings.

Accessing the GitLab Rails Console

The GitLab Rails console is a powerful tool that allows administrators to perform various maintenance tasks, troubleshoot issues, and directly interact with the application’s backend. To access the console, connect to your server via SSH and navigate to the GitLab application directory. Here, you can use the gitlab-rails console command to enter the interactive Ruby shell.

Once inside the Rails console, you have the ability to execute Ruby code in the context of your GitLab environment. This can be particularly useful for tasks such as resetting user passwords, performing database queries, or manually updating settings. It’s important to proceed with caution, as changes made in the console are immediate and can affect your live GitLab instance.

Common commands and tasks within the Rails console include:

Resetting user passwords
Querying the database
Managing background jobs
Clearing caches

Ensure you have a clear understanding of the commands you intend to run, as they can have significant impact on your GitLab instance.

Remember to exit the console by typing exit when you’re done to prevent any unintended changes. The GitLab setup involves initial configuration, adjusting the external URL, setting up HTTPS, and installing GitLab Runner for CI/CD pipelines. Key steps include editing configuration files and running reconfigure commands.

Reconfiguring GitLab to Apply New Settings

After making changes to GitLab’s configuration file, it’s essential to reconfigure GitLab to apply these new settings. This step ensures that all components of the system are aware of the updates and can operate correctly. To initiate the reconfiguration, use the command sudo gitlab-ctl reconfigure. This process may take a few minutes to complete, depending on the complexity of your configuration.

Once reconfiguration is complete, it’s a good practice to verify the installation. Check the status of GitLab services with sudo gitlab-ctl status to confirm that everything is running as expected. If you’ve made changes to the external URL or other critical settings, ensure that GitLab is accessible via the new URL.

It’s crucial to ensure that all services are operational and that the application is responsive after reconfiguration.

If you’ve enabled additional features such as GitLab KAS, make sure to add the necessary configurations in gitlab.rb and restart the services. Here’s a quick checklist to help you confirm that your GitLab instance is ready:

Reconfigure GitLab using gitlab-ctl reconfigure
Reset the admin password if necessary
Verify the status of all services
Access GitLab through the updated URL
Check for the functionality of newly enabled features

Starting and Testing Your GitLab Instance

Ensuring PostgreSQL and Redis Services are Running

Before diving into the GitLab instance, it’s crucial to ensure that the backbone services, PostgreSQL and Redis, are up and running. Start by checking the status of the PostgreSQL service with the command sudo systemctl status postgresql. If it’s not active, you can start it using sudo systemctl start postgresql.

For Redis, a similar check is required. Use sudo systemctl status redis to verify its status. Should Redis be inactive, bring it to life with sudo systemctl start redis. Both services need to be operational for GitLab to function properly.

It’s essential to have these services enabled to start automatically upon server reboot. To enable them, use sudo systemctl enable postgresql and sudo systemctl enable redis.

Lastly, ensure that both services are set to restart automatically in case of failure. This can be done by editing the service configuration files or using the systemctl command with the --now flag to apply changes immediately. Keeping these services in check is a foundational step in maintaining a stable GitLab environment.

Starting and Enabling gitlab.target

Once you’ve ensured that both PostgreSQL and Redis services are active and properly configured, it’s time to start and enable the gitlab.target. This is a crucial step to get your GitLab instance up and running. Execute the following commands to begin:

sudo systemctl start gitlab.target
sudo systemctl enable gitlab.target

After initiating these services, your GitLab instance should be operational. To verify that everything is functioning correctly, access your GitLab instance by navigating to http://your_server_ip or http://your_domain.com. You should be greeted with a login screen, prompting you to set up a root password for your GitLab instance.

It’s essential to ensure that your GitLab instance is accessible only from secure hosts. Initial access should be limited to localhost or a secure network until you complete the installation and configuration process.

By following these steps, you’ve successfully started GitLab and are ready to move on to the next phase: creating the root password and testing your instance’s accessibility.

Creating the Root Password on First Access

Upon your first visit to the GitLab instance, you will be prompted to set a password for the Administrator account, which has the username root. Ensure you choose a strong, unique password to secure your GitLab installation right from the start. After setting the password, you will also have the option to install an Enterprise Edition license, if applicable, by specifying the full path in the GITLAB_LICENSE_FILE environment variable.

Note: It is crucial to not expose your GitLab instance to the public internet until you have completed this step. Access to GitLab should be limited to localhost during the initial setup phase to prevent unauthorized access.

After successfully setting the root password, you can proceed to test your GitLab instance to ensure it is functioning correctly. This involves checking that services like PostgreSQL and Redis are running and that you can access GitLab through your web browser.

Testing GitLab Instance Accessibility

Once you’ve set the root password and ensured that all services are running smoothly, it’s time to test the accessibility of your GitLab instance. This is a critical step to confirm that your installation is successful and ready for use. Start by accessing GitLab through your web browser using the server’s IP address or domain name. You should be greeted with the GitLab login page, indicating that the web service is operational.

To verify that all functionalities are working as expected, perform the following checks:

Ensure that you can log in with the root account you created.
Create a new project and verify that you can add repository and push code to it.
Check that the Git SSH operations are functioning by cloning a project using SSH.
Confirm that the firewall settings are correctly configured to allow traffic on necessary ports.

It’s essential to validate that the GitLab package is properly installed and that you can access GitLab via the terminal. This ensures that command-line operations can be performed without issues.

If any issues arise during these tests, consult the troubleshooting section of the GitLab documentation or the GitLab Rails console cheat sheet for guidance on resolving common problems.

Migrating and Upgrading GitLab

Backing Up Old GitLab Data on CentOS 7

Before migrating your GitLab instance from CentOS 7 to Ubuntu 22.04, it’s essential to create a comprehensive backup of your data. This ensures that all repositories, configurations, and databases are preserved and can be restored on the new server. Start by logging into your CentOS 7 server and navigate to the GitLab installation directory.

Use the gitlab-backup command to initiate the backup process. The command will generate a tar file containing all the necessary data.

Once the backup is complete, securely transfer the tar file to your Ubuntu 22.04 server. Ensure that the GitLab version on your Ubuntu server matches the one on CentOS 7 to avoid compatibility issues during restoration. After transferring, use the gitlab-backup restore command to apply the backup to your new GitLab instance.

Remember to verify the integrity of the restored data before proceeding with any further operations. This step is crucial to avoid data discrepancies or loss. The following commands can help you confirm that all services are running correctly and that the data has been accurately restored:

gitlab-ctl status
gitlab-ctl start puma
gitlab-ctl start sidekiq

Adjust the GitLab configuration file to reflect the new server’s IP address and reconfigure GitLab to apply the changes.

Transferring Backup to Ubuntu 22.04

Once you have your GitLab backup ready, the next step is to transfer it to your new Ubuntu 22.04 server. Ensure correct permissions on the backup file to avoid any access issues during the restoration process. Use secure copy protocol (SCP) to transfer the backup file from your CentOS 7 server to the Ubuntu server.

The transfer process is critical and should be done with caution to prevent any data corruption.

After transferring, verify the integrity of the backup file on the Ubuntu server. If you’re using GitLab’s backup tool, the command gitlab-backup check can be helpful for this purpose. Once verified, you can proceed with the restoration process.

Here’s a quick rundown of the steps involved:

Install GitLab on Ubuntu 22.04 with the same version as your CentOS 7 server.
Use the gitlab-backup command to create a backup on CentOS 7.
Transfer the backup file to the /var/opt/gitlab/backups directory on Ubuntu 22.04.
Restore the backup on Ubuntu using gitlab-backup restore.

Remember to use gdebi if you need to install a package compatible with an older version of Ubuntu on your new server. This ensures that you can restore and upgrade GitLab without compatibility issues.

Restoring GitLab from Backup

Once you’ve transferred your GitLab backup to the new server, it’s time to restore it. Ensure the GitLab version on your Ubuntu 22.04 server matches the version from which the backup was taken. This is crucial for a successful restoration. Begin by stopping GitLab services with gitlab-ctl stop to prevent any database transactions during the restore process.

To restore the backup, navigate to the backup directory, typically /var/opt/gitlab/backups, and execute the [gitlab-backup restore](https://docs.gitlab.com/ee/administration/backup_restore/backup_large_reference_architectures.html) command followed by the BACKUP= option and the timestamp of the backup you wish to restore. For example:

$ sudo gitlab-backup restore BACKUP=1556571328_2019_04_29_11.10.2

After the restoration, it’s important to verify the integrity of the data. Start the GitLab services with gitlab-ctl start and check the status using gitlab-ctl status. If everything looks correct, you can proceed with the post-restoration steps, such as reconfiguring GitLab with gitlab-ctl reconfigure to apply the new settings.

Note: The backup folder location can be configured in config/gitlab.yml. For detailed documentation on backup and restore procedures, refer to the GitLab documentation.

Performing Upgrade Procedures on Ubuntu 22.04

Upgrading GitLab to the latest version on Ubuntu 22.04 involves a series of critical steps. Ensure that you have installed GitLab on Ubuntu 22.04 with the same version as your old server before proceeding with the upgrade. This consistency is key to a smooth transition.

After the installation, use the gitlab-backup command to create a backup of your old GitLab instance on CentOS 7. Transfer this backup to your new Ubuntu server and restore it using the gitlab-backup restore command.

Once the restoration is complete, you can begin the upgrade process. It’s essential to follow the upgrade path sequentially to avoid compatibility issues. For instance, when upgrading from version 14.10 to 15.0, you may also need to upgrade PostgreSQL. If a direct package for Ubuntu 22.04 is not available, tools like gdebi can be used to install compatible versions.

Backup old GitLab on CentOS 7
Transfer and restore backup on Ubuntu 22.04
Sequentially upgrade GitLab to the latest version

The upgrade process may require a downtime of 3–4 hours to prevent data loss. After these steps, your GitLab will be running the latest version on Ubuntu 22.04, ready for your DevOps needs.

Integrating Email Services with GitLab

Configuring SMTP Settings in SendGrid

After logging into the SendGrid console, you’ll need to prepare your SMTP settings. Ensure your SMTP settings match the following configuration for optimal email delivery through SendGrid:

SMTP host: smtp.sendgrid.net
SMTP port: Use 25 or 587 for unencrypted/TLS email, and 465 for SSL-encrypted email
SMTP Authentication: Must be enabled
SMTP Encryption: Must be SSL
SMTP username: Provided by SendGrid
SMTP password: Your unique password

Next, connect to your server using SSH or SFTP and modify the GitLab configuration file located at /etc/gitlab/gitlab.rb. Set gitlab_rails['smtp_enable'] to true to enable SMTP.

It’s crucial to ensure that SMTP settings are correctly configured to prevent email delivery issues.

Remember, using SendGrid’s SMTP service simplifies the email configuration for GitLab, as opposed to installing and maintaining mail server software like Sendmail on your cloud server, which can be complex and difficult to maintain. For a variety of SMTP service providers, GitLab provides detailed configuration methods in the official documentation.

Modifying GitLab Configuration for Email Integration

Once you’ve set up your SMTP settings, it’s time to modify the GitLab configuration to integrate email services effectively. Edit the [smtp_settings.rb](https://docs.gitlab.com/ee/tutorials/set_up_gitlab_google_integration/) file located at /etc/webapps/gitlab/ to reflect your SMTP service’s details. For instance, if you’re using Gmail, specify the address, port, domain, user_name, and password accordingly.

Ensure that gitlab_rails[‘smtp_enable’] is set to true in your gitlab.rb configuration file to enable SMTP.

Here’s a sample configuration for Gmail in smtp_settings.rb:

address: 'smtp.gmail.com',
port: 587,
user_name: 'username@gmail.com',
password: 'application password',
authentication: 'plain',
enable_starttls_auto: true

After updating the configuration, restart GitLab for the changes to take effect. Use the following command: sudo gitlab-ctl reconfigure. This will apply the new email settings and ensure that GitLab can send notifications and alerts via your chosen SMTP service.

Maintaining and Monitoring GitLab

Regularly Backing Up GitLab Data

Ensuring the integrity and availability of your GitLab data is crucial. Regular backups are the safety net for your repositories, configurations, and databases. To create a backup, navigate to your GitLab installation directory and execute the backup command as the GitLab user:

$ cd /usr/share/webapps/gitlab
$ sudo -u gitlab $(cat environment | xargs) bundle exec rake gitlab:backup:create

Restoration of data is just as straightforward. Use the following command, specifying the backup file you wish to restore:

$ sudo -u gitlab $(cat environment | xargs) bundle exec rake gitlab:backup:restore BACKUP=timestamp_gitlab_backup.tar

It’s essential to maintain a consistent backup schedule. Consider automating this process to minimize the risk of human error and ensure that backups are performed regularly.

For large installations, you might need to plan for a maintenance window, as the backup process can require a downtime of several hours. Here’s a simplified checklist for your backup strategy:

Verify the version compatibility of GitLab before backup and restoration.
Ensure that SSH certificates are in place for secure data transfer.
Schedule backups during low-traffic periods to minimize impact.
Regularly test backup files to confirm that they can be restored successfully.

Monitoring GitLab Performance and Logs

Monitoring your GitLab instance is crucial for ensuring optimal performance and quick troubleshooting. GitLab provides a suite of tools for monitoring that includes Prometheus metrics, Grafana dashboards, and various exporters for detailed insights. To get started, configure Prometheus to collect metrics from your GitLab instance and use Grafana to create visual dashboards.

Performance monitoring is not just about observing; it’s about being proactive in maintaining system health. Regularly check the following key metrics:

CPU and memory usage
Response times
Error rates
Throughput

By keeping a close eye on these metrics, you can preemptively address issues before they escalate.

Additionally, GitLab’s logging mechanisms offer comprehensive data for analysis. Ensure you review job logs, system logs, and application logs to understand the activities within your GitLab environment. The GitLab release process, with its monthly updates, helps maintain the stability and security of your instance.

Updating GitLab to the Latest Version

Keeping your GitLab installation up-to-date is crucial for security and access to the latest features. Start by updating your package lists with apt-get update and then proceed to upgrade the packages. For a specific version, you can use apt-get install gitlab-ee=<version_number>.

To ensure a smooth upgrade, it’s important to verify backups for errors before proceeding. After the upgrade, run gitlab-ctl reconfigure to apply the new configuration. If you’re upgrading from a significantly older version, you may need to follow additional upgrade steps to address any breaking changes.

It’s essential to test your GitLab instance after an upgrade to confirm that all services are functioning correctly.

Remember to check the official GitLab documentation for any version-specific upgrade instructions. Upgrading your GitLab instance ensures you have the latest security patches and features, which is vital for maintaining a robust DevOps environment.

Troubleshooting Common GitLab Issues

When you encounter issues with GitLab, start by checking configurations, permissions, and dependencies. This initial step can often resolve common problems without further intervention. For instance, if HTTPS is not displaying as green, it may be due to cached images not using HTTPS; clearing the cache can rectify this issue.

Next, consult the GitLab documentation for troubleshooting guides specific to your problem. For example, if you’re experiencing issues with GitLab Pages or SSH connections, the documentation provides detailed steps for resolution.

If problems persist after following the documentation, consider reaching out to the GitLab community. Many issues have been encountered and solved by others, and the community is an invaluable resource for systematic troubleshooting.

Lastly, keep a log of the errors you encounter. This can help in identifying patterns or recurring issues that may point to deeper underlying problems. Here’s a simple way to structure your error log:

Date and time of the issue
Description of the problem
Steps taken to attempt to resolve the issue
Outcome of the attempted solutions

By methodically addressing issues and leveraging community support, you can maintain a stable and efficient GitLab environment.

Securing Your GitLab Installation

Implementing SSL for Secure Connections

Securing your GitLab instance with SSL is a critical step in safeguarding your data and user interactions. Configure HTTPS access for GitLab with SSL certificates to ensure that all data transmitted between the server and clients is encrypted. For many, Let’s Encrypt provides a free and automated way to obtain SSL certificates, but you can also opt for commercial SSL providers if your organization requires it.

To set up SSL, modify the GitLab configuration files to enforce HTTPS. In /etc/webapps/gitlab/shell.yml, ensure the URL starts with https://. Similarly, in /etc/webapps/gitlab/gitlab.yml, set the https: option to true. Don’t forget to include the SSL directives in your web server’s configuration, such as SSLCertificateFile and SSLCertificateKeyFile pointing to your certificate files.

It’s also important to set the Strict-Transport-Security header to enforce HTTPS on all subsequent requests, adding an extra layer of security.

Lastly, manage your server’s SSL configuration by including the recommended settings from Let’s Encrypt or your SSL provider. This often involves adding lines to your Apache or Nginx configuration to reference the SSL certificate and key, and to set security headers like Strict-Transport-Security.

Setting Up Two-Factor Authentication

Enhancing the security of your GitLab installation is crucial, and setting up two-factor authentication (2FA) is a key step in this process. By requiring a second form of verification, you significantly reduce the risk of unauthorized access.

To enable 2FA, follow these simple steps:

Log in to your GitLab account.
Navigate to your user settings.
Click on ‘Account’ and find the ‘Two-factor Authentication’ section.
Follow the on-screen instructions to set up 2FA using your mobile device.

Once 2FA is enabled, you’ll need to enter both your password and a verification code from your mobile device whenever you sign in. This extra layer of security ensures that even if your password is compromised, your account remains protected.

It’s important to note that after enabling 2FA, you should generate recovery codes and store them in a secure location. These codes will allow you to access your account if your mobile device is unavailable.

Managing User Permissions and Access Control

Effective management of user permissions is crucial for maintaining a secure and efficient workflow in GitLab. Manage GitLab users by adding users with specific roles and permissions. Set permissions based on the least privilege principle to ensure that users have access only to what they need for their tasks, reducing the risk of unauthorized access or actions.

GitLab provides a variety of pre-defined roles such as Developer, Auditor, and Team Lead, each with a specific set of permissions. Additionally, you can create custom role templates to tailor access rights to the unique needs of your organization. Here’s a quick overview of user roles and their typical permissions:

Developer: Code commit, merge requests, issue tracking
Auditor: Read-only access to projects for compliance monitoring
Team Lead: Project management, repository management
Remediator: Address security vulnerabilities

It’s important to regularly review and update user permissions, especially after role changes or project completions, to minimize potential security risks.

For external users or contractors, GitLab allows you to configure permissions that are appropriate for their level of engagement with your projects. This ensures that external collaborators can contribute without compromising the integrity of your internal processes.

Regularly Reviewing Security Logs and Audit Events

Regularly reviewing security logs and audit events is a critical practice for maintaining a secure GitLab installation. Ensure that all security events are logged and that the logs are retained for an adequate period to comply with your organization’s policies and any relevant regulations. This allows you to track any changes or attempts to compromise the system.

By analyzing these logs, you can identify patterns that may indicate a security threat or breach, enabling a swift response.

Here’s a quick checklist to help you stay on top of security logs:

Rotate secrets of third-party integrations regularly
Respond promptly to security incidents
Conduct thorough audits of user activities
Harden your GitLab instance against attacks

Additionally, consider implementing continuous vulnerability scanning and static application security testing (SAST) to proactively detect potential security issues. Remember to also keep an eye on user file uploads and password storage practices to prevent unauthorized access.

Leveraging GitLab for DevOps Best Practices

Utilizing Continuous Integration/Continuous Deployment (CI/CD)

Embracing GitLab’s CI/CD capabilities is a game-changer for teams aiming to streamline their development and deployment processes. Automate your workflows by defining stages in the .gitlab-ci.yml file, such as build, test, and deploy, to ensure a consistent and efficient pipeline.

By integrating testing and deployment into your CI/CD pipeline, you can catch bugs early and maintain code quality throughout the development lifecycle.

Leverage GitLab Runner to optimize your builds and deployments. Here’s a quick rundown of a typical CI/CD workflow with GitLab:

STEP 1: Create a .gitlab-ci.yml file and define your pipeline stages.
STEP 2: Use the pipeline to build Docker images and push them to a registry.
STEP 3: Deploy your application to Kubernetes or other environments using appropriate commands.

Remember, a robust CI/CD pipeline is not just about automation; it’s about creating a resilient system that supports your team’s needs and enhances productivity.

Automating Workflows with GitLab CI

GitLab CI/CD is a powerful tool for automating the software development process, from code integration to deployment. Creating a .gitlab-ci.yml file is the first step in defining your automated workflow. This file contains the instructions for GitLab’s CI/CD pipeline, specifying stages, jobs, and scripts that will be executed automatically.

GitLab CI/CD ensures that your code is tested and deployed consistently, catching bugs early and maintaining code quality. The process is iterative, allowing for continuous integration and delivery of your projects. Here’s a simple breakdown of the initial steps:

Create a .gitlab-ci.yml file at the root of your project.
Define variables, job dependencies, and execution conditions within the file.
Set up GitLab Runners to execute your pipeline jobs.

By automating your workflows, you not only streamline the development process but also enforce best practices and standards across your team.

With GitLab CI, you can build a protected workflow for your project, ensuring that only quality code is deployed. This integration with your development cycle promotes a more agile and responsive approach to software creation.

Integrating GitLab with Other DevOps Tools

Integrating GitLab with other DevOps tools is a pivotal step in creating a seamless workflow for your development and operations teams. GitLab simplifies the entire toolchain, allowing your teams to work together as a unified, collaborative system while maintaining a high level of security. This integration is not just about convenience; it’s about enhancing efficiency and leveraging the full potential of your toolchain.

To kickstart the integration process, you’ll need to ensure that your GitLab instance is accessible over the internet and that your network permits connections between your VCS server and GitLab. Here’s a quick checklist to help you get started:

Verify network accessibility and security configurations
Generate a single access token for multiple integrations
Set up the GitLab repository address and ensure HTTPS is configured
Configure SMTP settings for email notifications

By integrating GitLab with other DevOps tools, you create a powerful, interconnected environment that supports a wide range of operations from code commit to deployment.

Remember to consult the GitLab documentation for detailed instructions on access tokens and integration setups. The goal is to create a cohesive ecosystem where GitLab acts as the central hub for your DevOps practices.

Establishing a DevOps Culture with GitLab

Establishing a DevOps culture with GitLab goes beyond just implementing tools; it’s about fostering an environment where collaboration, automation, and continuous improvement are at the core of your development process. GitLab Best Practices focus on collaboration, version control, and continuous integration. These practices are essential for teams aiming to streamline their workflows and enhance productivity.

To truly embrace a DevOps culture, consider the following points:

Encourage open communication and collaboration across teams.
Emphasize the importance of code reviews and merge requests for maintaining quality.
Automate repetitive tasks to free up time for more complex problems.
Invest in training and skill enhancement to keep your team up-to-date with the latest DevOps trends and tools.

By integrating these principles into your daily operations, you can create a more agile and responsive development environment. This not only leads to better software but also a more engaged and innovative team.

Remember, a successful DevOps culture is not just about the tools you use, but how you use them to achieve your business goals. For mastering GitLab, consider enrolling in DevOps certification training and explore hands-on labs and courses available for skill enhancement.

Conclusion

Congratulations on successfully installing GitLab on your server! By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ve taken a significant step towards enhancing your team’s collaboration and version control capabilities. Remember, the journey doesn’t end here. Take the time to explore GitLab’s vast array of features, configure your settings for optimal performance, and ensure your installation is secure. Should you encounter any issues or require further customization, the GitLab community and documentation are valuable resources. Happy coding, and may your development process be ever more streamlined with your new GitLab setup!

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prepare my server for GitLab installation?

To prepare your server, acquire your server’s internet IP, configure security group rules to allow TCP:80, connect to your server to retrieve GitLab credentials, and set up domain configuration if you plan to use a domain for GitLab.

How do I access GitLab for the first time?

Access GitLab by visiting http://your_domain or http://server_internet_IP in your web browser. Log in with the provided credentials to access the dashboard.

What are the required dependencies for installing GitLab on Ubuntu 22.04?

Before installing GitLab, you need to install required dependencies such as Redis and PostgreSQL.

How do I migrate GitLab from CentOS 7 to Ubuntu 22.04?

To migrate, back up your old GitLab data on CentOS 7, transfer the backup to Ubuntu 22.04, restore GitLab from the backup, and perform any necessary upgrade procedures.

How do I integrate email services with GitLab?

Integrate email services by configuring SMTP settings in your email service provider, such as SendGrid, and modifying the GitLab configuration file (/etc/gitlab/gitlab.rb) for email integration.

How do I secure my GitLab installation?

Secure your GitLab installation by implementing SSL for secure connections, setting up two-factor authentication, managing user permissions, and regularly reviewing security logs and audit events.

How can I use GitLab for DevOps best practices?

Leverage GitLab for DevOps by utilizing CI/CD, automating workflows with GitLab CI, integrating with other DevOps tools, and establishing a DevOps culture within your team.

What steps should I follow to maintain and monitor my GitLab instance?

Maintain and monitor GitLab by regularly backing up data, monitoring performance and logs, updating GitLab to the latest version, and troubleshooting common issues.