Part 2-Repos: "Visualize, Collaborate, Thrive: Azure Repos Unleashed with GUI Magic
Tags: git, beginners, devops, azure
Published: 2023-12-13 04:30:00

In the first part, "Command Your Code," we mastered Git and Azure Repos through the command line. Now, in the second part, "Visualize, Collaborate, Thrive," we explore Azure Repos' graphical magic. Learn to effortlessly visualize code changes, enhance collaboration with GUI tools, and optimize workflows for a seamless development experience. This builds on our command-line foundation, creating a holistic Azure Repos journey.

=================================================================

*Note: *

When you are doing practical work, don't delete anything because our Azure DevOps series relies on continuity between each part. Ensure that you are not cleaning your workspace. Additionally, don't worry about charges, as our account is on a free trial. We are covering beginners or basic Azure DevOps, so our project is not large. If a bill is generated, it will hardly exceed 100.

=================================================================

-> So, let's get started.

-> Now, let's explore another method directly from Azure Repos. Go to 'Branches' and then 'New Branch.

![Image description](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/9qz7svlwo4bt2v4h2vwp.png)

-> Provide a branch name and create it.

![Image description](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/2b9e5ep0720888tmg2rl.png)

![Image description](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/rga2v1140svj2rdffvr0.png)

-> Go to VS Code, open the command palette, and type 'git fetch.' Your branch should now be there.

![Image description](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/5r5jn2jwcyvfw9p2rgol.png)

-> If you want to create the branch locally, simply click on 'origin/Release,' and it will be created locally as well.

-> If the branch is deleted from the remote repo, we can also restore it. Let's delete the 'Release' branch. Afterward, in the right side corner in the 'Search Box,' type the name of your deleted branch and search. You will find it in the deleted section.

![Image description](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/131mz4twkxmsga85ucu2.png)

-> To restore it, click on the 'More' option on the right side and choose 'Restore Branch.' Your branch will be restored.

![Image description](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/lav8hmlqeq5u5agr6lxo.png)

![Image description](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/6s7gksfxrhcp5vxcwzrz.png)

-> You can also 'Lock the branch' to make it read-only. For that, select the 'Release' branch, click on the more option, and choose 'Lock.

![Image description](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/hluaz9387iglmb43xx66.png)

-> To unlock it again, go to the more option and select 'Unlock.

-> Now, let's move on to the next part, 'Tags.' Create a 'New Tag' by clicking on 'New Tag.' Provide the name as 1.1 and add a description.

![Image description](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/q2i6m05gi2p5ca7pl8je.png)

![Image description](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/u2yrjajoyr3z28k3u7n1.png)

-> To create a new repository, look for the '+' sign in front of the project. Click over there, create a 'New Repo,' give it a name, and hit 'Create.'

![Image description](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/emc60dpyglzk1suxes6l.png)

![Image description](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/j04wensdxr802zmt7rd1.png)

-> You can switch repositories by navigating here.

![Image description](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/72u6bhbw68h758io9q46.png)

-> To delete a repository, go to 'Manage Repos,' choose the repository, and click on 'Delete or Rename.

![Image description](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/0ch8ogi5v5x76zul272f.png)

![Image description](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/0q25x38cxvodtk1oqhqb.png)

-> Now, we're delving into a crucial aspect, especially when collaborating with multiple developers. It's essential that code is merged into our main or master branch only after proper testing and review. Navigate to the 'Pull Request' option; currently, you'll observe that there are no pull requests.

![Image description](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/edp8b92joesv0ef1hj6e.png)

-> To create one, let's go back to our 'VS Code.' Make a change, stage it, and then sync it.

![Image description](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/db5bpq5cz71hvh9vc9f9.png)

-> Go to Azure, click on 'Create New Pull Request,' select the source branch as 'release,' add reviewers, and create the request.

![Image description](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/mu6xrm4oofpp7kux3g6u.png)

-> Depending on the use case, either 'Approve' or 'Reject' the changes, and then merge the branch into the master.

![Image description](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/edttqgk11iit6kh8bt8x.png)

![Image description](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/qruixh1afkilr20vlu9c.png)

-> Finally, explore the 'Advanced Security' section where repository settings are available.

=================================================================

Summary:

In our exploration of Azure Repos, the second service in the Azure DevOps series, we've covered essential aspects of version control, collaboration, and repository management. From creating branches to managing tags and navigating the pull request workflow, we've equipped you with practical skills for efficient source code management in a collaborative development environment.

Stay tuned for the upcoming service in our series—Azure Pipelines. In the next segment, we'll delve deeper into automating build and deployment processes, offering a seamless integration of DevOps practices. I hope you've found our Azure Repos journey insightful, providing you with the tools and knowledge for successful collaboration and version control.

=================================================================

If you have any doubts, questions, or recommendations, feel free to drop a comment. Follow me for updates and happy learning! :)