Simplifying Large File Storage with lfsData

Simplifying Large File Storage with lfsData

Large files can be a challenge to handle in Git repositories, affecting cloning, downloading, and overall performance. But fear not! We have a solution for you. Introducing lfsData, a powerful Python library that simplifies working with large files in Git using Git Large File Storage (LFS).

Getting Started with Git LFS

Git LFS is an extension that enhances how Git handles large files by replacing them with text pointers inside the repository, while storing the actual file content on a remote server. With lfsData, you can effortlessly integrate Git LFS into your workflow and enjoy seamless handling of large files.

Downloading Single File

To download a single file using lfsData, follow these simple steps:
1. Create an access token with read_api capability and set it as an Environment Variable for GITLAB_ACCESS_TOKEN.
2. Set the GITLAB_ACCESS_TOKEN variable in your operating system or PyCharm.
3. Utilize the DataLoader().gitlab_download() function with the appropriate parameters:
– host: The domain from which you want to download the file.
– id: The ID of the repository.
– branch_name: The name of the branch where the file is stored.
– file_path: The address of the file in the repository.

Executing this command initiates the file download process with a progress bar. The downloaded file will be located in your home directory at .local/datasets/{project_id}/{branch_name}/{file_path}.

Clone Repository

To clone a repository with only pointer files, use the following commands:
– Linux (bash):
shell
GIT_LFS_SKIP_SMUDGE=1 git clone ssh://git@git.arusha.dev:9022/majd/datasets/qomnet.git
– Windows:
shell
$env:GIT_LFS_SKIP_SMUDGE="1"
git clone ssh://git@git.arusha.dev:9022/majd/datasets/qomnet.git

By skipping the smudge step, Git will only download the pointer files, making the cloning process faster and more efficient.

Tracking Files

To track files using lfsData, you can use the git lfs track command with wildcard patterns to specify the file types you want to track. Then, add the .gitattributes file to your repository.

Committing & Pushing Changes

Once you have made changes to your tracked files, you can commit and push them using Git commands:
shell
git add file.psd
git commit -m "Add design file"
git push origin main

Conclusion

lfsData is a valuable tool for simplifying large file storage in Git repositories. With its intuitive functions and commands, you can effortlessly manage large files, improving collaboration and productivity. Whether you are a developer or a project manager, lfsData is a must-have addition to your Git workflow.

So why wait? Start using lfsData today and experience the seamless handling of large files in Git.

For more information about Git LFS, visit git-lfs.com.