How to Connect to the Repository + Update files (TortoiseSVN)
TortoiseSVN is a Windows-based Subversion (SVN) client that integrates directly into the Windows File Explorer. It provides a graphical interface for connecting to an SVN repository, updating working copies, and committing changes back to the repository server.
This article describes the basic workflow for connecting to an SVN repository using TortoiseSVN, ensuring your local files are up to date before making changes, and committing updated or new files after changes are complete. The steps outlined here assume that TortoiseSVN is already installed on the system.
Connecting to an SVN Repository
The first step when working with an SVN repository is to create a local working copy. This working copy contains files checked out from the repository and is the location where edits and additions are made.
- Create a new folder on your local machine where you want to store the repository contents.
- Right-click the newly created folder and select SVN Checkout….
- Enter the repository URL provided to you and select OK.
- When prompted, enter your SVN username and password.
Once the checkout process completes, the folder will contain a complete copy of the repository at the selected revision. This folder becomes your working directory for all future changes.
Updating Files Before Making Changes
Before modifying any files, it is important to synchronize your working copy with the latest version of the repository. This ensures that you are not editing outdated files and helps avoid conflicts when committing changes.
- Right-click the working copy folder.
- Select SVN Update.
This action downloads the most recent versions of all files and folders, incorporating any changes made by other users since your last update. Running an update before editing is a standard SVN best practice.
Committing Changes to the Repository
After you have edited existing files or added new files to the working copy, those changes must be sent back to the repository so they are available to other users. This process is called committing.
- Right-click the working copy folder.
- Select SVN Commit….
- In the commit dialog, verify that all intended files are selected.
- Enter a clear and concise commit message describing the changes.
- Select OK to complete the commit.
Only the files selected in the commit dialog will be uploaded. Files that were not modified or were intentionally excluded will remain unchanged in the repository.
Recommended Workflow Practices
A consistent workflow helps reduce merge conflicts and improves collaboration when multiple users share the same repository. The typical sequence is:
- Run SVN Update before starting work.
- Make changes to files locally.
- Review changes and ensure files build or validate as required.
- Commit changes with a descriptive message.
Avoid making large, unrelated changes in a single commit. Smaller, focused commits make it easier to track changes and revert individual updates if necessary.
FAQ
What is the difference between SVN Update and SVN Checkout?
SVN Checkout creates a new working copy. SVN Update refreshes an existing working copy with the latest
repository changes.
Do I need to update before every commit?
Yes. Updating first reduces the chance of conflicts and ensures your changes are applied to the most
recent version of the files.
What happens if two people edit the same file?
SVN may require a merge if changes overlap. TortoiseSVN provides tools to resolve conflicts when they
occur.
Are files committed immediately visible to others?
Yes. Once committed, changes are stored in the repository and become available to other users when they
run SVN Update.
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