What are the key differences between SVN and Git?

What are the key differences between SVN and Git?

SVN (Subversion) is a centralized version control system, while Git is a distributed version control system. This means that in SVN, the repository is stored in a central server, and users check out files from that central location. In contrast, Git allows every user to have a complete copy of the repository on their local machine.

Can you explain how branching works in both systems?

In Git, branching is lightweight and easy to create, allowing for quick context switching. You can create, merge, and delete branches with minimal overhead. In SVN, branching is more cumbersome and often involves creating a separate directory in the repository, which can be less efficient.

Which one is better for collaboration?

Git is generally considered better for collaboration due to its distributed nature, allowing multiple users to work on different branches simultaneously without affecting the main codebase. SVN can lead to conflicts if multiple users try to commit changes to the same file at the same time.

Are there any specific use cases where SVN is preferred over Git?

Yes, SVN might be preferred in scenarios where a centralized control is necessary, such as in large organizations with strict access controls or when working with large binary files that are not well-suited for Git's model.