GitLab Backend
GitLab is a comprehensive platform that provides an open-source repository manager and continuous integration/continuous deployment (CI/CD) pipeline tool. The backend of GitLab is primarily built on Ruby on Rails, with several other technologies and components integrated to support its functionality. Here's a detailed look into the backend architecture and components:
Framework and Language
- Ruby on Rails: GitLab's core is built using Ruby on Rails, which provides the MVC (Model-View-Controller) structure for handling web requests, managing database interactions, and presenting data.
Database Management
- PostgreSQL: The primary database used by GitLab for storing all of its data, from user information to project details.
- Redis: Utilized for caching, background job queues, and real-time features like presence and chat.
CI/CD Pipeline
- GitLab Runner: An application that runs jobs in a pipeline, which can be deployed on various platforms to execute CI/CD jobs.
- GitLab CI/CD: This system manages the CI/CD pipeline, allowing for automated testing, building, and deployment processes.
Search and Indexing
- Elasticsearch: For advanced search capabilities within projects, issues, merge requests, etc.
Storage
- Gitaly: A service that handles all Git-related operations, optimizing how Git repositories are managed and accessed.
- Object Storage: For managing large files and artifacts, GitLab can interface with various object storage solutions like Amazon S3, Google Cloud Storage, or Azure Blob Storage.
Authentication and Authorization
- OAuth and LDAP: Support for external authentication methods.
- GitLab Access Tokens: For API access and integration with external systems.
Monitoring and Logging
- Prometheus and Grafana: For monitoring system health and performance.
- Logrotate: For managing and rotating log files.
History and Evolution
GitLab began as a side project by Dmitriy Zaporozhets in 2011. Initially, it was focused on providing an open-source alternative to GitHub. Over the years:
- In 2013, GitLab introduced its own CI/CD capabilities, integrating continuous integration into the platform.
- By 2015, GitLab introduced GitLab.com, offering a cloud-based version of their software.
- Continuous improvements in performance, scalability, and feature set have been made, with a focus on enhancing the backend to support millions of users.
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