Jenkins Vs. Gitlab Code deployments: Which is Better

Introduction

Jenkins Vs. Gitlab Code deployments: Which is Better?
Jenkins Vs. Gitlab Code deployments: Which is Better?

Today we will discuss on everything you need to know about Jenkins Vs. Gitlab Code deployments: Which is Better in simple and easy to follow guide.

Did you know that Gitlab has a different method of deploying code to Jenkins?

Today I will break down three different ways on how to accomplish this task.

  • Introduction Jenkins & Gitlab
  • Differences between the two
  • Most useful features

I have been working in the Software industry for over 23 years now and I have been a software architect, manager, developer and engineer. I am a machine learning and crypto enthusiast with emphasis in security. I have experience in various industries such as entertainment, broadcasting, healthcare, security, education, retail and finance.

Developing world-class applications is challenging; however, deploying them shouldn’t.

Every team (or project) is different; hence, there is no one size fits all. Furthermore, given the team’s success hinges on finding the best tools to deploy code, it’s normal to be at crossroads. Tools such as Jenkins and GitLab are great, but each has its pros, cons, and why they won’t work.

At first glance, it’s easy to assume they’re the same, but if you take a closer look, you’ll notice they are very different in ways that could alter your workflow 180 degrees.

This article will compare these above-mentioned deployment tools head-to-head and cover criteria such as build time, security features, and ease of use.  We will also briefly discuss how various companies use each tool throughout the world to see if it’s right for you.

But before we go down the rabbit hole, let’s define two terms we will use interchangeably: continuous Integration (CI) and continuous deployment (CD).

Understanding Continuous Integration and Deployment

Jenkins Vs. Gitlab Code deployments: Which is Better?
Understanding Continuous Integration and Deployment

Deploying code is more than just merging some changes. Instead, it stretches toward ensuring your application runs smoothly on the new hosting environment, which, in most cases, is usually different configurations from its development environment.

Rather than making bulk, infrequent changes to the code base, Agile methodology suggests you use continuous integration of small bits of new functionality. Continuous integration relies on frequent and dependable incremental code modifications. Automated build-and-test procedures activated by CI ensure that the code changes being incorporated into the repository are correct. The code is then seamlessly deployed as part of the CD process.

The CI/CD pipeline in software development simply means the automation that allows developers’ desktops to make incremental code changes and deliver them promptly and successfully to production.

Now, why is CI/CD so important? The short answer is: It allows businesses to get software out the door quickly and efficiently. CI/CD enables an effective method for getting products to market faster than ever before, with continuous delivery of code into production and assured delivery of new features and bug fixes using the most efficient distribution technique.

What is Jenkins and why do we use it?

Jenkins Vs. Gitlab Code deployments: Which is Better?
What is Jenkins and why do we use it

Formerly known as Hudson,  in 2004 changed its name to Jenkins following a software development debate over infrastructure. It is an open-source automation server with hundreds of plugins that aids you in developing, deploying, and automating any project.

Jenkins automatically keeps track of each commit, increasing the efficacy of code builds and verification. As a result, testers may use fewer resources while still achieving a faster integration process.

The self-contained server will be installed using native system packages or downloaded and run directly from any PC with Java Runtime Environment.

Core Features of Jenkins

While Jenkins is known for its automated build process, easy setup, and extensive documentation. Here are some of its core features:

Plugins

With over 1500 plugins to choose from, Jenkins is highly extensible. From language-specific tools to build tools, customization is not only possible, but it comes at no extra cost.

Open Source

Being open-source has its perks, one of which is; being readily accessible on macOS, Linux, Unix, and Windows users. Take things a step further with Docker to speed up automated tasks even more. There will be plenty of assistance and documentation to walk you through the installation procedure.

Distributed Work

With a different machine, you can distribute work effortlessly and effortlessly on Jenkins. Often, this will have no impact on your user interface, allowing you to run the same instance on other connected tasks.

Dependency Management

Before a project can start, Jenkins can verify dependencies. So if you’re using Maven to develop your plugin, you may save time on dependency management by importing this Maven BOM (BOM).

Build Triggers

An easy-to-set build trigger informs you of new commits or pull requests. In addition, this feature provides “what’s new” notifications to users, which are helpful for agile teams.

Integration

Jenkins has a mature integration with Microsoft Visual tools. If you’re using the MSBuild for your .NET plugin, Jenkins can present an MSBuild log. In addition to offering MSBuild logs, it will show regular build logs and provide build steps and execution times.

Pros

  • Open-Source.
  • Large Plugin library
  • It’s easy to deploy code.
  • Many languages are supported.
  • Nodes are easy to set up.

Cons

  • Absence of analytics for overall tracking of pipelines.

How to setup Jenkins

Below is a step-by-step process

Step 1: Install Java

How to setup Jenkins
How to setup Jenkins

Check your Java version on the terminal. If nothing shows up, you can download it here. Follow the prompt and click the corresponding operating system (OS).

Step 2: Configure Environment Variables

To use Java, you need to configure system variables. To do so, you need to click on “Edit System Variable”

Step 3: Download Jenkins

Downloading Jenkins
Downloading Jenkins

You can download and install Jenkins: https://www.jenkins.io/download/

Step 4: Configuring Jenkins

Configuring Jenkins
Configuring Jenkins

 

You’ll need to unlock Jenkins after installation is complete. Simply open a web browser and visit:

http://localhost:8080

The Jenkins window appears. You must supply the beginning password generated by Jenkins in the log files on this screen. You can then proceed with customizing plugins.

Gitlab: Premium Code Management Tool

Gitlab: Premium Code Management Tool
Gitlab: Premium Code Management Tool

Gitlab is the de facto version of every contemporary development platform and language. Whether you’re using it on OS X, Windows, Linux, or even containers like Docker, you can’t go wrong with it.

It’s a free and self-hosted Continuous Integration solution that’s integrated into GitLab CI/CD. Companies may use the community edition of GitLab CI/CD for secure authorization and authentication, which includes git repository management, issue tracking, code reviews, wikis, and activity feeds.

On-premises installation of GitLab  CI/CD is recommended when you need complete control over data and information. You’re free to manage your DNS, storage, and other such configurations without third-party interference.

Core Features of Gitlab

GitLab is highly extensible, allowing users to create their automation tools for specific needs.

Here are the core features of Gitlab:

Issue Tracking

Every Gitlab CI/CD installation includes an issue-tracking feature that’s not only helpful for agile teams but also makes it easier to have a transparent workflow. This is because each issue has its own GitLab CI/CD environment, where project managers can easily see the status of an application.

Jekyll Plugins Support

If you’re using Jekyll (or any Ruby-based plugins), then GitLab has got you covered. Its built-in Jekyll integration offers the following functionality:

Caching

Caching is a key advantage of GitLab CI/CD. The caching feature speeds up your workflow and allows you to hit the ground running without having to wait for an application’s dependencies.

Code Reviews

GitLab CI/CD offers code review and feedback, which is done by merge request. This not only allows your team to understand the status of an application but also provides a safer way of pushing changes into production.

Active Community Support

Gitlab’s active community support ensu

res that the product is regularly updated. You also have access to a comprehensive GitLab CI/CD tutorial, which can be found here: https://about.gitlab.com/tutorials/continuous-integration/ci_cd_with_jenkins/.

Pros

  • Scalable due to Concurrent runners.
  • Integrates perfectly with Docker.
  • Features merge request integration.
  • Transparent privacy policies.
  • Highly secure ecosystem.
  • Dedicated support available.

Cons

  • Limited operating system (OS) supported.
  • The merged state of a branch isn’t usually tested until after the merge has occurred.

How to Install Gitlab

How to Install Gitlab
How to Install Gitlab

Installing Gitlab is straightforward. As it is faster, easier to set up, and has additional features that aren’t accessible in other installations, Gitlab supports Linux installation only. You can also install it on cloud providers such as Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure and Google cloud platform (GCP). Omnibus is the installer package for all of the services and tools needed.

How to Configure Git Source Code Management on Gitlab

  • Find the Source Code Management tab and choose the Git option.
  • Customize the git repository with your custom URL and branch.
  • Check GitHub hook trigger box for GITScm option and click the save button (image below)
How to Configure Git Source Code Management on Gitlab
How to Configure Git Source Code Management on Gitlab

Configure GIT Webhook

External services may use the Webhook feature to be informed when particular circumstances occur. When the required event occurs, Git sends a POST request to the specified URL.

Go to the Settings page in your Git repository, choose Webhooks and select Add webhook button.

Configure GIT Webhook
Configure GIT Webhook

Jenkins Vs. Gitlab: In-depth comparison

Jenkins Vs. Gitlab

Jenkins

Gitlab

Plugin Support Approximately 2000 Plugins available. Limited.
Tech Stack Runs in Java environment Nodejs, Ruby, GoLang.
Installation Easy to install and supports major OS. Strictly supports linux distros and cloud service providers.
Community Active decentralised Community. Readily accessible community.
Tech Support Unavailable. Available.
Comprehensive API Yes. More resounding support for REST API and GraphQL

Jenkins and Gitlab Use Case Scenarios

With Jenkins, you either choose between the self-hosted and on-premises options, both of which are smart choices for startups and medium-sized businesses that don’t have the financial or technical resources to part with.  It is easy to learn and work with. The web UI allows you to manage processes, orchestrate and automate deployment easily.

However, when it comes to version control and code collaboration, Gitlab may be a better alternative since it allows the user to quickly view the entire code repository and all of its branches. With Jenkins, you can only monitor some units. If your development teams are spread across multiple geo-locations, Gitlab serves a good purpose. The second consideration is the price. While Jenkins is free, to use all features of Gitlab, you need to have a subscription.

Which CI/CD Tool works best?

While comparison will help you gain a deeper understanding, it is solely up to you to pick and choose according to your financial means, project scope/complexity, and many more elements. Jenkins is ideal for you if you’re searching for ways to get started with full creative plugins, broad OS support at no extra cost. If scalability is a requirement and you have plans to launch enterprise-level applications, then you might want to consider Gitlab.

Conclusion

If you found Jenkins Vs. Gitlab Code deployments: Which is Better useful and you think it may have helped you please drop me a cheer below I would appreciate it.

If you have any questions, comments please post them below I check periodically and try to answer them in the priority they come in. Also if you have any corrections please do let me know and I’ll update the article with new updates or mistakes I did.

Which CI/CD tool do you use?

I personally like to use Gitlab simply because it was what I started with. Having said that I have also used Jenkins but I don’t really think it’s better or worst than Gitlab. So use what is best for your needs based on the list of pro’s and con’s we discussed earlier.

If you would like to learn more about automation you can take a look at some of my articles here:

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