Git Annex

Self-Hosted

Git-based large file management and synchronization tool

Overview

Git Annex extends Git to handle large files efficiently without bloating repositories. It tracks file metadata in Git while storing content in annexes, syncing across devices/repos via SSH, S3, WebDAV, and more. Features include partial checkouts (access only needed files), data integrity via cryptographic hashes, and decentralized workflows. Deployable on Linux, macOS, Windows (WSL/standalone), it integrates with existing Git setups or uses Git Annex Assistant for automated sync.

Self-Hosting Resources

Find Official Image on Docker Hub View Source & Docs

Below is a reference structure for docker-compose.yml. ⚠️ Do NOT run blindly. Replace placeholders with official values.

docker-compose.template.yml TEMPLATE


version: '3'
services:
  git_annex:
    image: <OFFICIAL_IMAGE_NAME>:latest
    container_name: git-annex
    ports:
      - "8080:<APP_INTERNAL_PORT>"
    volumes:
      - ./data:/app/data
    restart: unless-stopped

Key Features

Track large files in Git without storing content in repositories
Sync across devices using SSH, S3, WebDAV, and other protocols
Partial checkouts to save space by accessing only needed files
Data integrity verification with cryptographic hashes

Frequently Asked Questions

? Is Git Annex hard to install?

Git Annex is available on Linux, macOS, Windows (WSL/standalone), and BSD. Install via package managers (apt, brew) or source. Setup involves initializing an annex in a Git repo and configuring remote storage—familiarity with Git helps, but official docs offer step-by-step guides for beginners.

? Is it a good alternative to Dropbox?

Git Annex is great for users prioritizing data control and large file management. Unlike Dropbox, it doesn’t rely on a central service (use your own servers/cloud). However, it’s more technical and lacks Dropbox’s intuitive GUI, making it better for power users or Git-savvy individuals.

? Is it completely free?

Yes! Git Annex is open-source under the GPLv3 license. It’s free for personal and commercial use with no hidden fees. You can modify and distribute it according to the license terms.

Top Alternatives

Dropbox Compare

Google Drive Compare

Tool Info

Pricing Free/Open Source

Category File Transfer & Synchronization

Platform Self-Hosted

Pros

⊕ Privacy-focused (no mandatory third-party services)
⊕ Seamless integration with existing Git workflows
⊕ Supports multiple storage backends (local, cloud, remote servers)
⊕ Decentralized architecture for full data control

Cons

⊖ Steeper learning curve (requires Git knowledge plus annex commands)
⊖ Limited graphical UI options (mostly command-line driven)
⊖ Automated sync needs extra setup (e.g., Git Annex Assistant)