Cloning a GitHub repository is one of the first and most important skills you’ll learn as a developer. It lets you download a project from GitHub to your computer. From there, you can explore the code, make changes, and contribute back. But there are two common ways to clone a repository: HTTPS and SSH. Which one should you use? Let’s break it down in a fun and simple way.
TLDR: You can clone a GitHub repository using HTTPS or SSH. HTTPS is easier to set up and great for beginners. SSH is more secure and convenient for frequent contributors. If you just want to get started quickly, use HTTPS. If you plan to push code often, SSH will save you time.
What Does “Cloning” Mean?
Cloning means copying a remote repository from GitHub to your local machine. Think of it as downloading the entire project, including its history.
When you clone a repository, you get:
- The full source code
- All branches
- The commit history
- A connection to the original remote repo
This connection is important. It allows you to pull updates and push changes.
Step 1: Find the Repository URL
Before cloning, go to the GitHub repository page.
Click the green Code button. You will see two main options:
- HTTPS
- SSH
Each option gives you a URL. That URL is what you use with the git clone command.
Cloning with HTTPS (Beginner Friendly)
HTTPS is the simplest method. It works right away. No special setup is required.
How to Clone Using HTTPS
- Copy the HTTPS URL from the GitHub page.
- Open your terminal (or Git Bash).
- Run:
git clone https://github.com/username/repository.git
Press Enter. Done. The project downloads to your current folder.
What Happens Next?
When you try to push changes later, GitHub will ask for your credentials.
This usually means:
- Your GitHub username
- A personal access token (instead of a password)
GitHub no longer allows password authentication. You must generate a token in your GitHub settings.
Why HTTPS Is Great for Beginners
- No SSH key setup
- Works on any machine instantly
- Easy to understand
If you are cloning a repository just to explore it, HTTPS is perfect.
Downsides of HTTPS
- You may need to enter credentials often
- Less convenient for frequent pushes
If you work on many repositories daily, typing tokens gets annoying fast.
Cloning with SSH (Advanced and Powerful)
SSH stands for Secure Shell. It uses cryptographic keys instead of passwords.
It sounds complicated. But once set up, it feels magical.
How SSH Works
You generate two keys:
- A public key (shared with GitHub)
- A private key (kept secret on your computer)
GitHub stores your public key. When you connect, it checks if your private key matches.
No password typing. No tokens. Just smooth access.
Step 1: Generate an SSH Key
In your terminal, type:
ssh-keygen -t ed25519 -C "your_email@example.com"
Press Enter a few times. A key pair is created.
Step 2: Add the Key to GitHub
- Open your public key file (usually in
~/.ssh). - Copy its contents.
- Go to GitHub → Settings → SSH and GPG keys.
- Click New SSH key and paste it.
Step 3: Clone Using SSH
Now copy the SSH URL from the repository page.
It looks like this:
git@github.com:username/repository.git
Then run:
git clone git@github.com:username/repository.git
That’s it. You are connected securely.
Why Developers Love SSH
- No repeated credential prompts
- Strong security
- Faster workflow for teams
Downsides of SSH
- Takes time to set up
- Can be confusing at first
- May not work immediately in restricted networks
For total beginners, it might feel like overkill. But for daily contributors, it is worth it.
HTTPS vs SSH: Quick Comparison
Here’s a simple side-by-side look:
- Setup Time: HTTPS is faster. SSH needs configuration.
- Security: Both are secure. SSH uses key-based authentication.
- Convenience: SSH wins for long-term usage.
- Best For: HTTPS for beginners, SSH for active developers.
Switching Between HTTPS and SSH
Already cloned a repository using HTTPS but want SSH?
No problem.
Go into your project folder and run:
git remote set-url origin git@github.com:username/repository.git
This changes the connection without re-cloning.
You can check your current remote with:
git remote -v
Flexibility is your friend.
Common Errors and How to Fix Them
1. Permission Denied (SSH)
This usually means:
- Your SSH key is not added to GitHub
- SSH agent is not running
Try:
ssh -T git@github.com
This tests your connection.
2. Authentication Failed (HTTPS)
This often means:
- You used a password instead of a token
- Your token expired
Generate a new personal access token in GitHub settings.
Cloning for Teams and CI/CD
In team environments, SSH is usually preferred.
Why?
- Developers push code many times daily
- Automation tools need stable authentication
- SSH keys integrate well with servers
In CI/CD pipelines, deploy keys are commonly used. These are special SSH keys attached to a single repository.
This keeps automation secure and controlled.
Best Practices for Both Methods
- Always keep your SSH private key secret.
- Use strong passphrases for added security.
- Store tokens securely.
- Regularly review your GitHub security settings.
Security is not optional. It is part of being a good developer.
So, Which One Should You Choose?
If you are:
- Just learning Git
- Cloning occasionally
- Working on a shared or temporary computer
Choose HTTPS.
If you are:
- Contributing daily
- Working on private repositories
- Managing servers or automation
Choose SSH.
There is no wrong answer. Both methods work. Both are secure.
The real goal is simple: get the code onto your machine and start building.
Final Thoughts
Cloning a GitHub repository is your first step into collaboration. It connects you to a global community of developers.
Start with HTTPS if you want a smooth beginning. Move to SSH when you’re ready to level up.
At the end of the day, Git is just a tool. The real magic is what you build with it.
Now open your terminal. Pick a repository. And clone away.