In this section, we will explore server-side Git Hooks, which run on the server where the repository is hosted. These hooks are triggered during interactions with the remote repository, such as when a push is performed. Server-side hooks are useful for tasks such as change validation, continuous integration, and automated deployment.

Types of Server-Side Hooks

Below, some of the most important server-side hooks are described, along with practical examples of how they can be used.

Pre-receive

The pre-receive hook runs before accepting a push on the server. This hook is useful for validating the received data and rejecting the push if it does not meet certain criteria.

Example: Commit Message Verification with pre-receive

Let's say we want to ensure that all commit messages follow a specific format before accepting changes on the server.

1. Create the file hooks/pre-receive in the server repository and add the following script:

   bash
   

2. Make the script executable:

   bash
   

Update

The update hook runs once for each branch being updated during a push. This hook is useful for branch-specific validations or access permissions.

Example: Restricting Push to the Main Branch with update

We want to prevent direct pushes to the main branch.

1. Create the file hooks/update in the server repository and add the following script:

   bash
   

2. Make the script executable:

   bash
   

Post-receive

The post-receive hook runs after the data has been received and updated on the server. It is commonly used for continuous integration tasks or automated deployments.

Example: Automatic Deployment with post-receive

We can configure a post-receive script to automatically deploy changes to a test environment after each push.

1. Create the file hooks/post-receive in the server repository and add the following script:

   bash
   

2. Make the script executable:

   bash
   

Post-update

The post-update hook runs after updating the references in the repository. This hook is useful for notifications or processes dependent on repository updates.

Example: Sending Notifications with post-update

We can configure a post-update script to send an email notification after each update in the repository.

1. Create the file hooks/post-update in the server repository and add the following script:

   bash
   

2. Make the script executable:

   bash
   

Customization and Maintenance of Server-Side Hooks

Just like client-side hooks, you can customize these hooks to suit the specific needs of your project. Below are some tips for maintenance:

Tips for Maintenance

1. Security: Ensure that the hook scripts are secure and free of vulnerabilities.
2. Documentation: Document your hook scripts so that other team members can understand and maintain them.
3. Testing and Monitoring: Regularly test your hook scripts and monitor their behavior to ensure they function correctly.

In the next section, we will explore how to use Git Hooks to automate tasks. We will see examples of automation with both client-side and server-side hooks, and how they can help you improve your workflow.

Let's continue!