Subversion for Administrators Training Course

SVN server setup

• Installing the package and resolving all dependencies
• Creating one or multiple repositories with careful consideration of location, performing initial imports, and migrating from CVS and other version control systems

Fine-tuning various access schemes, including http, https, svn, svn+ssh, and file protocols, with specific attention to:

• Configuring Apache modules
• Utilizing SSH environment variables to streamline svn+ssh:// URLs
• Establishing appropriate user databases and designing complex access control lists or authorization patterns
• Integrating with LDAP, domain controllers, MySQL, PAM, and other authentication systems

Configuring an effective repository layout

• Structuring each sub-project with a complete tree structure (trunk, branches, and tags); suitable for sub-projects that are inclusive, self-contained, have minimal inter-dependencies, and feature stable, mature APIs
• Housing all modules on the trunk/branches/tags for logically compact projects with strong coupling among modules
• Understanding the differences and benefits of each approach

Backup strategy and disaster recovery

• Implementing backup strategies, including native methods with svn sync and third-party tools such as rsync and hot copy
• Comparing whole repository backups against individual revision checkouts or dumps
• Executing disaster recovery procedures
• Permanently removing files and history

Fundamental knowledge for managing repositories

• Following the standard working cycle with Subversion (hands-on practice)
• Creating branches and tags
• Setting up locks and other controls
• Designing client-side tools and integrating them with IDEs
• Selecting and configuring repository viewing facilities
• Establishing general user policies, including setting Subversion hooks for strict restrictions
• Designing automated check-out and build/compilation processes, as well as automatic testing