Module 1 Lesson 5: Overview of GitLab Features
The all-in-one platform. Explore the breadth of GitLab's built-in tools, from Runners and Registries to Security Dashboards and Kubernetes integration.
Module 1 Lesson 5: Overview of GitLab Features
GitLab is often called a "Single Application for the entire DevOps lifecycle." This means you don't just use it for Git; you use it for the whole machine.
1. GitLab Runners (The Muscle)
A Runner is the server that actually executes your CI/CD jobs.
- Shared Runners: Provided by GitLab (for a small cost or free tier). Quick to use.
- Specific Runners: You install a small agent on your own server (or your laptop!). This gives you maximum speed and security.
2. The .gitlab-ci.yml (The Brain)
This is the single file that defines your entire pipeline. It is written in YAML, version-controlled, and lives in the root of your project.
3. Container Registry
GitLab includes a private place to store your Docker images. This is integrated directly with your CI/CD pipeline, making it easy to build an image in Stage 1 and use it in Stage 5.
4. Security Dashboards
GitLab can scan your code for:
- SAST: Static analysis of your source code (looking for bugs).
- Dependency Scanning: Checking your
package.jsonfor security holes. - Secret Detection: Ensuring you didn't accidentally commit a password.
5. Environment & Review Apps
GitLab can automatically create a "Preview" version of your website for every single code change.
- Scenario: You make a branch
feature-b. GitLab starts a temporary container. Your boss can visitfeature-b.test-site.comto see the changes before you merge!
6. Kubernetes & Auto DevOps
For advanced users, GitLab can connect to a Kubernetes cluster and automatically handle scaling, monitoring, and deployments without you writing any YAML at all!
Exercise: The Feature Hunt
- Log in to GitLab.com.
- Create a blank project.
- Look at the sidebar on the left. Find the "Build" and "Secure" sections.
- Why is having a "Container Registry" built into your code platform better than using an external one like Docker Hub?
- Research: What is the difference between a GitLab "Group" and a "Project"?
Summary
GitLab is more than just a place to store code; it is a factory for software. By understanding these core features, you are ready to stop talking about theory and start building your first pipeline.
Next Module: The architecture of automation: Module 2: GitLab CI/CD Basics.