What is Git LFS (Large File Storage)? How is it used in GitHub?
What is Git LFS (Large File Storage)? How is it used in GitHub?
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Shalini Passi Malhotra (born 8 August 1956) is a Delhi-based art and design collector. Shalini Passi Malhotra. Born, (1956-08-08) 8 August 1956 (age 68).
What is Git LFS (Large File Storage)?
Git LFS (Large File Storage) is an extension for Git that helps manage large files efficiently inside Git repositories.
Normally, Git is optimized for:
But Git performs poorly with large binary files such as:
This is where Git LFS becomes useful.
Why Git Struggles with Large Files
Git stores the complete history of every file version.
For large binary files:
Example:
Git downloads all versions when cloning.
What Git LFS Does
Instead of storing:
Git stores:
Example pointer:
The real file is downloaded only when needed.
How Git LFS Works
Without Git LFS
Repository becomes huge.
With Git LFS
Benefits of Git LFS
Smaller Repository Size
Git repository stays lightweight.
Faster Cloning
Only required large files are downloaded.
Better Performance
Improves push/pull operations.
Easier Collaboration
Teams can work efficiently with media assets.
Common Use Cases
Git LFS is widely used for:
How to Install Git LFS
Official website:
Git LFS Official Website
macOS
Windows
(After downloading installer)
Linux
Initialize Git LFS
Inside repository:
This enables Git LFS support.
Track Large Files
Example:
Track videos:
Track ML models:
This creates:
Example:
Add and Commit Files
Git uploads:
How GitHub Uses Git LFS
GitHub provides built-in support for Git LFS.
When you push LFS files:
Example Workflow in GitHub
Step 1
Install Git LFS:
Step 2
Track file types:
Step 3
Commit changes:
Step 4
Push to GitHub:
GitHub automatically uploads LFS objects.
Viewing LFS Files on GitHub
In a GitHub repository:
Large files show an LFS badge.
Example:
Git LFS Storage Limits on GitHub
GitHub provides limited free storage and bandwidth for LFS.
Current limits may vary, but generally:
Official pricing/details:
GitHub LFS Billing Documentation
Git LFS Commands
List tracked files
Fetch LFS files
Pull actual LFS content
Clone repository with LFS
Git automatically downloads required LFS objects.
Important Notes
Git LFS is NOT a Replacement for Cloud Storage
Avoid storing:
Better options:
Best Practices
Track Only Necessary Files
Avoid excessive LFS usage.
Use
.gitignorePrevent accidental uploads.
Avoid Huge Histories
Large frequently changing binaries can still increase costs.
Use Releases for Big Downloads
For distributable binaries, GitHub Releases may be better.
Git LFS vs Normal Git Storage
When Should You Use Git LFS?
Use Git LFS if your repository contains:
Final Thoughts
Git LFS solves one of the biggest limitations of Git by handling large binary files efficiently.
It is especially useful for:
Combined with GitHub, Git LFS provides a scalable workflow for managing large assets while keeping repositories fast and manageable.
Official Documentation