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HTTPS Authentication

What is it?

HTTPS is a method to authenticate your local Git with your GitHub account over the internet using a Personal Access Token (PAT) instead of a password.

Why do we use it?

GitHub no longer allows you to use your account password when pushing code from the terminal for security reasons. You must use a Personal Access Token (PAT) if you connect via HTTPS.

Basic Syntax

When you clone a repository via HTTPS, the URL looks like this:

git clone https://github.com/USERNAME/REPOSITORY.git

Example: Generating a PAT

  1. Go to GitHub Settings -> Developer Settings -> Personal access tokens -> Tokens (classic).
  2. Click Generate new token.
  3. Give it a note (e.g., "Laptop Git").
  4. Check the repo scope (this gives it permission to push/pull code).
  5. Click generate and copy the token.

When you push code and the terminal asks for a password, paste this token instead.

Common Mistakes

  • Closing the page before copying: GitHub only shows the token once. If you lose it, you have to generate a new one.
  • Typing password instead of token: Using your normal GitHub login password in the terminal will fail with an "Authentication failed" error.

Quick Summary

  • Passwords don't work in the terminal anymore.
  • Generate a Personal Access Token (PAT) in GitHub settings.
  • Check the repo permission when creating the PAT.
  • Use the PAT whenever Git asks for a password.