How to Install Git on Windows Server 2016

Git is a widely used source-code management tool that has gained immense popularity among professional developers. With its comprehensive feature set and flexibility, it's no wonder why nearly 95% of developers use it as their primary version control system. But how do you install Git on your Windows Server 2016? In this article, we'll walk you through the step-by-step process.

Why Choose Git for Version Control

Git is a free and open-source software that offers a robust set of features, including support for non-linear development, efficient handling of large projects, and cryptographic authentication of history. Its toolkit-based design allows for pluggable merge strategies and flexibility in managing version control tasks. Additionally, its distributed nature means that every Git directory on every computer is a full-fledged repository with complete history and full version-tracking abilities, independent of network access or a central server.

Installing Git on Windows Server 2016

To install Git on your Windows Server 2016, follow these steps:

1. Open the Start menu and search for 'Turn Windows features on or off'.

2. Click on the result to open the Windows Features window.

3. Scroll down and check the box next to 'Git' under the 'Development Tools' section.

4. Click OK to save your changes.

5. Once the installation is complete, you can verify that Git is installed by opening a command prompt or PowerShell and typing `git --version`.

Additional Tips and Best Practices

* To get started with using Git on your Windows Server 2016, create a new directory for your project and navigate to it in the command prompt or PowerShell.

* Initialize a new Git repository by running the command `git init`.

* Use the `git add` and `git commit` commands to stage and commit changes to your code.

By following these steps and tips, you'll be well on your way to using Git effectively for version control on your Windows Server 2016. Whether you're a seasoned developer or just starting out, Git is an essential tool that can help streamline your workflow and improve collaboration with your team.

Install git windows server 2016