Step-by-Step Guide to Installing GitLab CE on Ubuntu 22.04

by Devop · 30/04/2024

This article provides a comprehensive guide to installing and configuring GitLab CE on Ubuntu 22.04. From preparing your system to integrating with development tools and ensuring security, we cover all the steps necessary for a successful setup. Whether you’re setting up a CI/CD pipeline, integrating with IDEs, or securing your installation, this guide will walk you through the entire process with clear instructions.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

Updating system packages and installing necessary dependencies is crucial for a stable GitLab environment on Ubuntu 22.04.
GitLab CE installation involves setting up essential services like PostgreSQL and Redis, and configuring them correctly.
Securing your GitLab installation includes implementing reCAPTCHA, configuring user permissions, and staying updated with security patches.
Integrating GitLab with development tools like VS Code and Kubernetes enhances the efficiency of development workflows.
Regular monitoring, maintenance, and adhering to best practices ensure the reliability and performance of your GitLab CE instance.

Preparing Your System

Updating System Packages

Before diving into the GitLab installation, it’s crucial to ensure that your system’s packages are up-to-date. Start by updating the package list with the command sudo apt update. This will refresh your repository indexes and make the latest package versions available for installation.

Next, upgrade the installed packages to their latest versions using sudo apt upgrade. If the system prompts you to continue, type Y and press Enter to proceed. It’s important to note that this process may take some time, depending on the number of updates and your internet connection speed.

After updating and upgrading, it’s a good practice to clean up any unnecessary packages with sudo apt autoremove.

Finally, reboot your system if there were significant updates, especially to the kernel or other critical system components. A reboot ensures that all updates are correctly applied and that your system is running the latest versions.

Installing Necessary Dependencies

Before diving into the GitLab installation, it’s crucial to ensure that your system has all the necessary dependencies. This step is vital for a smooth installation process and optimal performance of GitLab CE. Start by installing the latest version of CMake, as it’s required for building various components.

GitLab Ultimate users might require additional dependencies, so it’s important to check the official documentation for any specific needs. Here’s a quick rundown of the essential dependencies:

Docker CE
Nvidia Container Toolkit
ptp4l and phc2sys (for time synchronization)
Boot configuration service

Ensure that all dependencies are installed and properly configured before proceeding to the next steps.

If you encounter any issues with plugin configurations or service connections, refer to the respective documentation or community forums for troubleshooting tips. Remember, a well-prepared system is the foundation of a robust GitLab CE setup.

Securing Your Ubuntu Server

Before diving into the GitLab installation, it’s crucial to ensure your server is secure. Start by configuring the firewall with ufw to allow only necessary ports such as SSH (22), HTTP (80), and HTTPS (443). Use the ufw enable command to activate the firewall after configuration.

Next, SSH hardening is a must. Disable root login and password authentication in the SSH configuration file (/etc/ssh/sshd_config) to reduce the risk of brute-force attacks. Instead, use key-based authentication for a more secure connection.

It’s also advisable to regularly update your server’s security patches. Automate this process with unattended-upgrades to keep your system fortified against vulnerabilities.

Lastly, consider setting up fail2ban, a tool that bans IPs that show malicious signs such as too many password failures. This adds an extra layer of protection against intrusion attempts.

Setting Up GitLab Dependencies

Installing and Configuring PostgreSQL

To ensure GitLab CE runs smoothly, a properly configured PostgreSQL database is essential. Start by installing the latest version of PostgreSQL for Ubuntu 22.04. You can do this by executing the following commands:

sudo apt update
sudo apt install postgresql postgresql-contrib

After installation, it’s crucial to secure your PostgreSQL instance. Begin by switching to the postgres user and accessing the PostgreSQL prompt:

sudo -i -u postgres
psql

At the prompt, set a strong password for the PostgreSQL user with the command:

\password postgres

Ensure that the password you choose is strong and secure to prevent unauthorized access.

Next, create a GitLab-specific database and user. This isolation improves security and manageability. Use the following SQL commands within the PostgreSQL prompt:

CREATE USER gitlab WITH PASSWORD 'your_password';
CREATE DATABASE gitlabhq_production OWNER gitlab;

Remember to replace 'your_password' with a secure password of your choice. Finally, exit the PostgreSQL prompt with \q and return to your regular user with exit.

Setting Up Redis

Redis is an essential component for GitLab’s caching infrastructure, providing high-speed data storage and retrieval. Ensure your system has Redis installed and properly configured to optimize GitLab’s performance. Start by installing Redis using the package manager:

sudo apt-get install redis-server

After installation, it’s crucial to secure Redis. Begin by setting a strong password in the Redis configuration file (/etc/redis/redis.conf), and then restart the service to apply changes:

sudo systemctl restart redis.service

It’s important to verify that Redis is running and accessible by GitLab. Use the redis-cli ping command to check the connection. If you receive a PONG response, Redis is ready for GitLab.

Lastly, adjust the Redis settings to fine-tune its performance for GitLab. Consider memory usage limits and eviction policies to ensure stable operation under load.

Configuring Necessary Services

After setting up the core dependencies for GitLab, it’s crucial to configure the necessary services to ensure smooth operation. Ensure that all services start on boot and are running correctly. This includes setting up services like Nginx or Apache as a web server, configuring email services for notifications, and integrating any external authentication services for user management.

Configure the web server (Nginx/Apache)
Set up email services for GitLab notifications
Integrate external authentication services (LDAP/SSO)

It’s essential to verify the status of each service after configuration to avoid any disruptions in GitLab’s functionality.

For enterprise setups, consider authentication for third-party tools and Single Sign-On (SSO) to streamline user access. Properly configured services are the backbone of a reliable GitLab installation, supporting everything from user access to notification delivery.

Installing GitLab CE

Adding the GitLab Repository

Before installing GitLab CE, you need to add the GitLab repository to your system. This ensures you receive the latest stable version directly from the source. Start by updating your package index to make sure all your system packages are up to date. Then, proceed with the following steps:

Install the necessary dependencies for GitLab:

sudo apt-get install -y curl openssh-server ca-certificates

Add the GitLab package repository and install the repository signing key:

curl -sS https://packages.gitlab.com/install/repositories/gitlab/gitlab-ce/script.deb.sh | sudo bash

By adding the official GitLab repository, you’re not only preparing to install GitLab CE but also setting the stage for easier upgrades and access to additional features, such as GitLab Premium.

Once the repository is added, you’re ready to move on to the actual installation of GitLab CE. Remember to verify the repository addition by checking the list of sources in your package manager.

Installing GitLab CE Package

With your system prepared and GitLab dependencies in place, it’s time to install the GitLab CE package. Ensure your system meets the minimum requirements for GitLab CE to function correctly. The installation process is straightforward, but it’s crucial to follow the steps carefully to avoid any issues.

To begin, execute the following commands in your terminal:

Update the package index:
sudo apt-get update
Install the GitLab CE package:
sudo EXTERNAL_URL="http://yourdomain.com" apt-get install gitlab-ce

Replace http://yourdomain.com with the actual domain you intend to use for your GitLab instance. After the installation, GitLab will automatically start. You can verify this by checking the service status:

sudo gitlab-ctl status

It’s essential to run [gitlab-ctl reconfigure](https://forum.gitlab.com/t/migration-gitlab-version-14-6-1-from-ubuntu-18-04-to-ubuntu-22-04/99877) after the installation to ensure all components are properly set up. This command will configure GitLab with the necessary settings and users, as indicated by the migration snippet.

Once GitLab is up and running, you can access it through your web browser by navigating to the domain you configured earlier. The first time you visit your GitLab instance, you’ll be prompted to set up the root password, which grants you administrative access to the platform.

Initial Configuration of GitLab

After successfully installing GitLab CE, the initial configuration is crucial to ensure that your instance is tailored to your needs. Start by accessing the GitLab instance through your web browser. You’ll be prompted to set a password for the default root user. This is the first step in securing your GitLab installation.

Next, log in with the root user and navigate to the ‘Admin Area’ to configure the settings. Here, you can set up your organization’s details, adjust visibility levels, and configure authentication options. It’s also a good time to add any SSH keys for users who will need access to repositories.

Ensure that all configurations align with your security and operational policies to maintain a robust environment.

Finally, review the integrated services and applications to make sure they are functioning correctly. This includes checking the status of PostgreSQL, Redis, and any other services you’ve set up. A healthy system status is vital for GitLab to operate smoothly.

Configuring GitLab

Adjusting GitLab Configuration Files

After installing GitLab CE, the next crucial step is to fine-tune the configuration files to suit your specific needs. Open the main GitLab configuration file typically located at /etc/gitlab/gitlab.rb. This is where you can adjust settings related to GitLab’s external URL, email configuration, and many other parameters.

To apply the changes you make, you’ll need to run the [sudo gitlab-ctl reconfigure](https://www.digitalocean.com/community/tutorials/how-to-install-and-configure-gitlab-on-ubuntu) command. This will trigger a reconfiguration of GitLab, incorporating your updates. It’s essential to review the settings carefully, as they will affect the operation and security of your GitLab instance.

Here’s a quick checklist to guide you through the configuration process:

Set the external_url to your GitLab domain.
Configure the email settings to enable notifications.
Adjust the backup settings to define the backup frequency and location.
Review any additional settings that may be relevant to your setup.

Note: Always backup your configuration files before making changes. This ensures you can revert to a known good state if necessary.

Setting Up Email Notifications

Configuring email notifications is a crucial step in ensuring that your team stays informed about project updates and system alerts. GitLab CE allows you to set up email notifications with ease, ensuring that all stakeholders are kept in the loop. To begin, you’ll need to specify your email service provider’s SMTP settings within GitLab’s configuration file.

Here’s a simple checklist to guide you through the process:

Determine your email provider’s SMTP server address and port
Configure SMTP authentication details, such as the username and password
Set the smtp_enable and smtp_address parameters in the GitLab configuration file
Test the email configuration to ensure that notifications are being sent successfully

It’s essential to verify that your SMTP settings are correct to avoid any disruptions in communication. A misconfiguration can lead to missed notifications, which can be critical in a collaborative environment.

Once set up, you can customize the types of notifications each user receives, tailoring the experience to individual preferences and roles. This customization enhances the overall efficiency of your team’s communication.

Enabling HTTPS with Let’s Encrypt

After installing GitLab CE, it’s crucial to secure your server with HTTPS to protect user data and credentials. Enabling HTTPS with Let’s Encrypt is a straightforward process that greatly enhances your GitLab server’s security. First, you need to update the external_url in the GitLab configuration file to use https. Then, integrate Let’s Encrypt to automatically handle SSL certificates. This integration not only simplifies the management of SSL certificates but also ensures they remain up to date.

Once you’ve made the necessary changes, verify that everything is configured correctly. You’ll also need to configure Nginx as a reverse proxy to handle HTTPS traffic. This step is essential for providing secure access to your GitLab instance.

Finally, test your configuration to ensure that all web traffic is properly encrypted and that your GitLab instance is accessible via HTTPS. A successful setup means better security for your server and peace of mind for your users.

Integrating GitLab with Development Tools

Connecting GitLab to IDEs like VS Code

Integrating GitLab with your development environment, particularly with VS Code, can significantly streamline your workflow. The dedicated GitLab Workflow extension for VS Code is a game-changer for developers. It allows you to clone repositories, manage issues, review merge requests, and trigger CI/CD pipelines right from your editor, reducing the need for context switching.

To get started, simply install the GitLab Workflow extension from the VS Code marketplace. Once installed, you’ll need to configure it by connecting to your GitLab account. Here’s a quick rundown of the steps:

Open VS Code and navigate to the Extensions view.
Search for ‘GitLab Workflow’ and install the extension.
Access the extension settings and enter your GitLab instance URL and personal access token.

By minimizing the need to switch between tools, this integration enhances developer efficiency and keeps you focused on coding.

Remember, while this guide focuses on VS Code, GitLab also integrates with other IDEs like JetBrains suite, offering similar benefits and a seamless development experience.

Setting Up GitLab Runner for CI/CD

GitLab Runner is an essential component for automating your CI/CD pipeline, handling tasks such as building, testing, and deploying your code. Setting up GitLab Runner on a Kubernetes cluster enhances your CI/CD process by leveraging Kubernetes’ features like automatic scaling and self-healing, which leads to improved reliability and performance.

To get started, you’ll need to create a values.yaml file that contains the configuration for your GitLab Runner. This file should be tailored to your specific needs, starting with a copy of the default file provided by GitLab. Pay special attention to the details that will link the runner to your repository.

The integration of GitLab Runner with Kubernetes using Helm simplifies the deployment process and ensures that your pipelines are as efficient as possible.

Following the initial setup, the next steps involve configuring and deploying GitLab Runner using Helm. This process is straightforward and provides a robust setup for your CI/CD needs. Below is a concise guide to help you through this phase:

Sign up for a GitLab account if you haven’t already.
Install Helm 3, which is required for the following steps.
Configure your values.yaml file with the necessary details.
Deploy GitLab Runner using the Helm chart with your customized configuration.

Integrating with Kubernetes Using Helm

Integrating GitLab with Kubernetes streamlines the deployment process and enhances the management of your applications. Helm charts simplify the deployment of applications on Kubernetes, acting as a package manager. To start, ensure you have Helm installed on your system. Then, add the GitLab chart repository to your Helm configuration:

helm repo add gitlab https://charts.gitlab.io/

Next, you can deploy GitLab using the Helm chart with the following command:

helm install gitlab gitlab/gitlab --set global.hosts.domain=<your-domain>

Replace <your-domain> with your actual domain name. After the installation, you can manage your GitLab instance within your Kubernetes cluster, leveraging Helm’s capabilities for easy updates and rollbacks.

It’s essential to configure your Kubernetes environment to work seamlessly with GitLab. This includes setting up proper access controls, storage configurations, and network policies to ensure a secure and efficient operation.

For a detailed configuration, refer to the official GitLab documentation or the Helm chart’s README, which provides comprehensive guidelines and customizable parameters for your setup.

Securing Your GitLab Installation

Implementing reCAPTCHA

Integrating reCAPTCHA with your GitLab instance is a crucial step in enhancing security. GitLab’s integration with reCAPTCHA helps to prevent spam and abuse during user registration, login, and password reset processes. This additional layer of defense is key in protecting your version control system from automated threats and brute force attacks.

To set up reCAPTCHA in GitLab, follow these steps:

Register your GitLab instance with Google to obtain reCAPTCHA API keys.
Configure GitLab to use the keys by editing the gitlab.yml configuration file.
Enable reCAPTCHA in the GitLab admin area under the ‘Settings’ section.
Test the functionality to ensure that reCAPTCHA is working correctly on the user-facing pages.

Ensuring that reCAPTCHA is functioning correctly is vital for maintaining the integrity of your GitLab instance.

Remember to periodically review the effectiveness of reCAPTCHA and adjust settings as needed. If you encounter any issues with false positives or negatives, consider training Akismet alongside reCAPTCHA for improved accuracy.

Configuring User Permissions

Properly configuring user permissions is a critical step in securing your GitLab installation. Role-Based Access Control (RBAC) ensures that users have access only to the resources necessary for their role. In GitLab, you can assign pre-defined roles such as Developer, Auditor, or Team Lead, each with specific permissions.

Developer: Can create and manage branches, merge requests, and contribute to the codebase.
Auditor: Has read-only access to the repository, ensuring compliance without altering the content.
Team Lead: Manages the team’s access, merge approvals, and oversees the project’s progress.

Custom role templates allow for granular control over permissions, tailoring access to the unique needs of your team or organization. It’s important to regularly review and update these permissions to reflect changes in team structure or project requirements.

By establishing clear user roles and permissions, you maintain a secure and efficient workflow, minimizing the risk of unauthorized access or accidental changes to your codebase.

Regularly Updating GitLab for Security Patches

Keeping your GitLab instance up-to-date is crucial for maintaining security and stability. Regular updates provide patches for vulnerabilities, ensuring your system is safeguarded against known threats. It’s important to follow GitLab’s official upgrade recommendations to minimize potential issues during the update process.

Upgrading GitLab should be a routine part of your maintenance schedule. Here’s a simple checklist to guide you through the process:

Check the GitLab documentation for the latest release notes.
Review any known issues, such as the [ruby/glibc issue](https://forum.gitlab.com/t/upgrade-from-16-6-6-to-16-6-7-ruby-glibc-issue/100891) reported on the GitLab Forum.
Perform a backup of your GitLab instance before proceeding with the upgrade.
Apply the update using your package manager or source installation methods.
Verify the update by checking the GitLab version and running a few basic functionality tests.

It’s essential to test your GitLab instance after an update to ensure all features operate as expected and no new issues have arisen.

By incorporating these steps into your workflow, you can maintain a secure and efficient GitLab environment. Remember to monitor the official GitLab channels for any urgent security releases or patches.

Monitoring and Maintenance

Setting Up Monitoring with Datadog

Monitoring your GitLab CE instance is crucial for maintaining system health and performance. Datadog offers comprehensive monitoring solutions that can be tailored to GitLab’s specific needs. Start by creating a Datadog account and installing the Datadog agent on your Ubuntu server.

Integration with Datadog allows you to track a variety of metrics and logs. Configure the agent to monitor GitLab’s processes, and set up dashboards for real-time insights. Here’s a simple checklist to ensure you cover the essentials:

Install the Datadog Agent
Configure GitLab metrics collection
Set up dashboards and alerts
Monitor system performance and user activity

Ensure that the Datadog agent is properly configured to collect metrics from GitLab. This will enable you to detect and respond to issues promptly, ensuring a smooth operation.

Regularly review the monitoring data to optimize your GitLab instance. Keep an eye on the performance trends and be proactive about scaling resources or adjusting configurations as needed.

Performing Regular Backups

Regular backups are crucial for any system administrator to ensure data integrity and quick recovery in case of failure. Performing consistent backups of your GitLab instance is not just recommended; it’s essential for maintaining the health of your system. Start by scheduling automated backups to run during off-peak hours to minimize disruption.

It’s important to verify the integrity of backups regularly. This ensures that you can rely on them when you need to restore your system.

Here’s a simple checklist to follow for your backup routine:

Ensure that all GitLab data directories are included in the backup.
Check that backups are stored in a secure, off-site location.
Regularly test backup restoration to confirm that your data can be recovered.

Remember to document your backup process thoroughly. This documentation should include the backup schedule, the retention policy, and the steps for restoration. Having this information readily available can significantly streamline the recovery process in an emergency.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

When you encounter issues with GitLab CE on Ubuntu, it’s crucial to approach troubleshooting methodically. Start by verifying the system’s time and date, as incorrect settings can lead to apt update errors. If you’re experiencing problems with GitLab Runner, ensure that your system is up-to-date and check for any manually installed or configured repositories that might conflict with GitLab’s dependencies.

Ensure that all services GitLab depends on, such as PostgreSQL and Redis, are running correctly. Use systemctl status to check their status.

If you’re dealing with plugin-related issues, such as deprecated plugins causing container startup failures, the solution often involves rebuilding the image and removing the problematic plugins. Remember, a simple restart is rarely the fix. Here’s a quick checklist to help you diagnose common problems:

Check if you can SSH into the server and connect to external services or databases.
Verify that all GitLab services are active and running.
Look for errors in GitLab’s logs, typically found in /var/log/gitlab/.
Update GitLab Runner using sudo [apt-get update](https://askubuntu.com/questions/1506688/apt-get-update-for-gitlab-runner-for-ubuntu-20-04-6-lts-failing-with-invalid-sig) if you’re on an older version like Ubuntu 20.04.6 LTS.
Remove any old or conflicting software, such as outdated CUDA toolkits, that might interfere with GitLab’s operation.

Advanced GitLab Features

Exploring Advanced CI/CD Options

Advanced CI/CD options extend beyond basic automation, offering sophisticated strategies for integrating security and compliance into your DevOps pipeline. Incorporating tools like Snyk and Mergify can significantly enhance your workflow, ensuring that security vulnerabilities are identified and managed efficiently.

italics integration with AWS CodePipeline, for example, allows you to add a Snyk scan stage, bolstering your code’s security before deployment. Here’s a quick rundown of setup requirements for AWS CodePipeline integration:

Language support for AWS CodePipeline
Setup requirements for AWS CodePipeline
AWS CodePipeline CodeBuild step example

Embracing CI/CD for data building and test automation can lead to more resilient and secure applications. It’s crucial to understand both intentional and unintentional compromises that can occur in test automation.

Jenkins and Mergify are pivotal in the CI/CD landscape, with Jenkins automating tasks like building and testing, while Mergify streamlines the merging process. To stay ahead, consider exploring sessions from leading CI/CD communities for insights and updates.

Customizing GitLab Appearance

GitLab offers a range of customization options to align the interface with your company’s branding or your personal aesthetic preferences. Changing the appearance of GitLab can enhance the user experience and make navigation more intuitive. You can start by adjusting the colors and logo under the ‘Admin Area’ to match your brand identity.

To further personalize your GitLab instance, consider modifying the login page and project avatars. Here’s a simple list to get you started:

Update the primary color and header logo in the ‘Appearance’ settings
Customize the sign-in page with a welcome message and background image
Set unique avatars for each project to improve visual identification

Remember, while aesthetics are important, they should not compromise the usability or functionality of the platform. If you’re looking to dive deeper into customization, GitLab’s themes and CSS overrides offer more advanced options.

Customizing your GitLab instance not only reflects your brand’s personality but also creates a more engaging environment for your development team.

Utilizing GitLab API for Automation

The GitLab API is a powerful ally in automating and enhancing your workflow. Automate repetitive tasks and integrate with other services to create a seamless development experience. With the API, you can programmatically manage projects, issues, merge requests, and more, freeing up valuable time for your development team.

GitLab’s API allows for custom integrations that can be tailored to your specific needs. For example, you can connect your GitLab instance with external tools for monitoring, analytics, or project management. Below is a list of common automation tasks that can be achieved using the GitLab API:

Triggering CI/CD pipelines
Creating, updating, and closing issues
Managing merge requests
Automating user and group management
Retrieving and managing repository files

By leveraging the GitLab API, you can significantly reduce manual intervention and ensure that your team’s focus remains on creating high-quality software.

Remember to consult the official GitLab API documentation for detailed instructions on how to authenticate and use the various endpoints available. This will ensure that you are using the API effectively and securely.

Best Practices for GitLab CE on Ubuntu

Maintaining a Clean and Organized Repository Structure

A well-organized repository is crucial for efficient collaboration and maintenance. Start by defining a clear directory structure and naming conventions that make sense for your project. This will help contributors understand where to find and place new files. Use a .gitignore file to avoid committing unnecessary files to the repository.

Adopt a branching strategy that suits your team’s workflow. For instance, the Gitflow workflow is popular for managing multiple versions of the project. Ensure that branch names are descriptive and consistent. Here’s a simple example of a branching strategy:

main for stable release
develop for ongoing development
Feature branches off develop
Hotfix branches off main

Consistently review and merge pull requests to avoid a backlog that can become unmanageable. Encourage small, frequent commits that are easier to review than large, infrequent ones.

Documentation is key. Maintain an up-to-date README.md and other relevant documentation within the repository to guide new contributors. This includes coding standards, how to set up the development environment, and how to contribute.

Ensuring High Availability and Redundancy

High availability and redundancy are critical for maintaining a robust GitLab environment. Ensure that your GitLab instance can withstand various types of failures by implementing a multi-node setup. This approach not only provides failover capabilities but also allows for load balancing among the nodes, leading to better performance and reliability.

To achieve high availability, consider the following strategies:

Use a load balancer to distribute traffic evenly across your GitLab servers.
Set up a replicated database configuration to safeguard your data against single points of failure.
Regularly test your failover procedures to ensure they work as expected in an emergency.

It’s essential to have a well-documented recovery plan that can be executed swiftly in the event of an outage. This includes having backups of your data and knowing the steps to restore services quickly.

Remember, scalability is a key aspect of high availability. As your team and projects grow, your GitLab infrastructure should be able to scale accordingly. This means having flexible resources that can be adjusted to accommodate changes in traffic and resource demands seamlessly.

Regular Code Reviews and Merge Request Management

Structured code reviews are a cornerstone of maintaining high-quality code. GitLab’s merge request feature streamlines the review process, allowing for consistent and efficient evaluations of code changes. By integrating tools like Collaborator, code reviews can be automatically initiated with each pull request, ensuring a thorough examination before code is merged.

Effective management of merge requests is crucial for a smooth development workflow. Here’s a simple checklist to keep your merge requests in check:

Ensure all merge requests align with project goals
Automate testing and deployment with GitLab’s CI/CD
Set up rules for automatic code review requests
Configure merge queues to maintain the integrity of the main branch

By adhering to these practices, teams can foster a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement, leading to a more robust and reliable codebase.

Wrapping Up

Verifying the Installation

After successfully installing GitLab CE on your Ubuntu 22.04 server, it’s crucial to verify that everything is functioning as expected. Start by ensuring that all services related to GitLab are running. You can do this by executing the following command: [sudo gitlab-ctl status](https://cloudinfrastructureservices.co.uk/how-to-install-gitlab-on-ubuntu-22-04/). This will provide you with a list of all the GitLab components and their current status.

Next, access the GitLab interface by navigating to your server’s IP address or domain name in a web browser. If the installation was successful, you should be greeted with the GitLab login page. Log in with the default username and password to confirm that the authentication process is working correctly.

It’s important to validate that GitLab can communicate with any external services or databases it needs to connect with. Perform a quick check to ensure that outbound connections, such as SSH to client servers, are operational.

Finally, consider running a few test projects to fully explore the features and confirm that all functionalities are available. This step is essential to ensure that your GitLab instance is ready for real-world use.

Creating Your First Project

With GitLab CE installed on your Ubuntu server, you’re now ready to embark on the journey of version control and collaboration. Creating your first project is a milestone that marks the beginning of this journey. To get started, navigate to the GitLab dashboard and select the ‘New project’ option. Here, you can either import an existing repository or start fresh with a new one.

Once you’ve set up your project, it’s time to push your local code to GitLab. As highlighted in a snippet from TheServerSide, you must first create a GitLab repository before you can push your local development project. This is a simple process that involves clicking on the ‘Create Repository’ button within the GitLab interface.

After creating your repository, you’ll be provided with a series of commands to run in your local environment. These commands will link your local repository with GitLab, allowing you to push your code and track changes effectively.

Finally, familiarize yourself with the project settings to manage access, configure webhooks, and set up branch protection rules. Here’s a quick checklist to ensure you’ve covered the basics:

Exploring Further Learning Resources

With your GitLab CE installation up and running on Ubuntu 22.04, you’ve taken a significant step towards efficient collaboration and CI/CD. Continuing your education is crucial to leverage the full potential of GitLab. Explore additional tutorials and resources to expand your knowledge and skills.

Introduction to Computer Vision
Deep Learning Fundamentals
Machine Learning Concepts
Advanced NLP Techniques

These topics will not only enhance your understanding of GitLab but also provide a broader perspective on software development practices. > As a stretch goal, consider expanding your project with these additional tutorials to stay ahead in the tech curve.

For those interested in a cross-platform GitLab experience, the Windows setup guide offers insights into meeting system requirements, configuring Git, and more. It’s a valuable resource for teams working in diverse environments.

Conclusion

Congratulations on completing the installation and configuration of GitLab CE on your Ubuntu 22.04 system! By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ve set up a powerful, self-hosted GitLab instance that’s ready to handle your development projects. Remember, GitLab is more than just a version control system; it’s a comprehensive suite for CI/CD, issue tracking, and much more. As you continue to integrate GitLab with your development workflow, explore its features, and customize it to fit your needs, you’ll unlock its full potential. If you encounter any challenges or need to expand your setup, the GitLab community and documentation are valuable resources. Happy coding!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I install GitLab CE on Ubuntu 22.04 using Docker?

Yes, GitLab CE can be installed on Ubuntu 22.04 using Docker. This involves pulling the GitLab Docker image and running it as a container.

How do I integrate GitLab with VS Code?

GitLab integrates with VS Code through extensions that provide features like issue tracking and merge request creation within the IDE.

What are the prerequisites for setting up GitLab Runner using Helm?

The prerequisites include a Kubernetes cluster with admin privileges, kubectl configured to connect to the cluster, and Helm (version 3) installed.

How can I secure my GitLab installation against bots?

Integrate GitLab with reCAPTCHA to prevent spam and abuse during registration, login, and password reset pages, adding a layer of defense against bots.

What is the purpose of integrating GitLab with Datadog?

Integrating GitLab with Datadog allows you to monitor your CI/CD data within Datadog, alongside other metrics and logs, for comprehensive monitoring.

Can GitLab be integrated with Kubernetes for CI/CD pipelines?

Yes, GitLab can be integrated with Kubernetes using GitLab Runner and Helm to set up CI/CD pipelines within a Kubernetes cluster.

Is it possible to automate GitLab with an API?

Yes, GitLab provides an API that can be used for automation, such as creating projects, managing issues, and triggering pipelines programmatically.

Does GitLab support SAML for single sign-on?

Yes, GitLab supports SAML integration, which allows for single sign-on (SSO) and a centralized authentication method, improving user convenience.