One may need to update the password for Git to ensure the repository remains secure, especially if you suspect your credentials have been compromised, or as a routine measure. This tutorial will guide you step-by-step through the process of updating your Git password.
Table of Contents
Prerequisites
Before proceeding to update the password for Git, ensure that you have the following:
- Git installed on your machine.
- Access to your Git hosting service (e.g., GitHub, Bitbucket).
- New password or personal access token if you’re using two-factor authentication.
Update the Password for Git
There are a few methods to update your Git password, but most commonly, you would either update your credentials directly through the command line or use a Git credential manager. Let’s explore both methods:
Updating Credentials via Command Line
To update your Git password from the command line:
git config --global credential.helper cache
This command will cache your credentials for a default of 15 minutes. You can specify a longer time with:
git config --global credential.helper 'cache --timeout=3600'
Afterwards, the next time you perform a git operation that requires authentication, Git will prompt you for your password, allowing you to enter your new one.
Updating Credentials via Git Credential Manager
If you have the Git Credential Manager (GCM) installed:
git credential-manager reject https://[your-repository-url]
This command will remove the stored credentials for the specified repository URL. On your next git operation requiring authentication, you’ll be prompted for your new credentials.
SSH Keys for Authentication
Alternatively, you may use SSH keys instead of updating your password:
ssh-keygen -t rsa -b 4096 -C "[email protected]"
This command generates a new SSH key. You can then add the public key to your Git hosting service under your account settings to authenticate via SSH.
Citations and References
Conclusive Summary
In summary, to update the password for Git, one can use the command line to modify credentials or employ the Git Credential Manager. For a more secure and password-less experience, consider using SSH keys. It’s important to regularly update your credentials to protect your repositories and maintain operational security.
