Introduction:
When it comes to developing software, one of the key aspects to consider is the use of third-party libraries. These libraries provide developers with pre-written code that can be integrated into their projects to save time and effort. However, the question arises, where should these third-party libraries be stored? Should they be included in the source control of the project? In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of storing third-party libraries in source control.
What is Source Control?
Source control, also known as version control, is a system that manages changes to a set of files over time. It is commonly used in software development to keep track of all the code changes made by developers and to facilitate collaboration among team members. Source control systems provide a central repository for storing and managing the code base of a project.
Pros of Storing Third-Party Libraries in Source Control:
1. Easy Access: One of the main advantages of storing third-party libraries in source control is that they are easily accessible by all team members. This eliminates the need for each member to download and install the libraries separately, saving time and effort.
2. Version Control: By storing the third-party libraries in source control, the team can keep track of the versions of the libraries used in the project. This ensures that all team members are using the same version, which can help avoid compatibility issues.
3. Offline Availability: When third-party libraries are stored in source control, they are also available offline. This means that developers can continue working on their project even without an internet connection, as the libraries are already present in the source control system.
4. Backup and Recovery: Source control systems provide a backup of all the code changes made in the project. This includes the third-party libraries as well. In case of any unforeseen circumstances, the team can easily recover the libraries from the source control system.
Cons of Storing Third-Party Libraries in Source Control:
1. Limited Storage: Source control systems have finite storage capacity, and storing large third-party libraries can quickly eat up that space. This may lead to additional costs for upgrading the storage capacity of the source control system.
2. Increased Repository Size: Including third-party libraries in the source control repository will increase its size significantly. This may lead to slower performance and longer times for cloning or pulling the code from the repository.
3. Licensing Issues: Some third-party libraries have restrictive licensing agreements that do not allow them to be stored in source control. This can lead to legal issues and potential penalties if the libraries are included without proper permission.
4. Dependency Management: Including third-party libraries in source control can make managing dependencies more challenging. If the libraries are updated, the team must ensure that all team members are using the latest version, which can be a time-consuming process.
Conclusion:
Storing third-party libraries in source control has both advantages and disadvantages. While it provides easy access, version control, and offline availability, it also has limitations in terms of storage, repository size, and licensing issues. Therefore, it is essential to carefully consider the size, licensing, and dependency management of the libraries before deciding whether to include them in the source control system. Ultimately, the decision should be based on the specific needs and requirements of the project and the team.
