How to Change Default Branch on GitHub: A Step-by-Step Guide
Changing the default branch on GitHub is a common task for developers, especially when they want to switch from the traditional master branch to the more modern and secure main branch. In this article, we will walk you through the process of how to change the default branch on GitHub in a simple and straightforward manner.
Before you begin, make sure you have the necessary permissions to modify the repository settings. If you’re not the owner or a collaborator with the required access, you won’t be able to change the default branch.
Step 1: Navigate to the Repository
Log in to your GitHub account and go to the repository you want to modify. Once you’re on the repository page, click on the “Settings” tab on the right-hand side of the screen.
Step 2: Go to Repository Settings
Under the “Settings” tab, scroll down and click on the “Branches” section. This will display a list of branches in your repository, along with their protection rules and default branch settings.
Step 3: Modify the Default Branch
Next to the “Default branch” label, you will see the current default branch name. Click on the drop-down menu to select a new default branch. If you want to switch to the main branch, choose it from the list, or select the branch name you’ve renamed master to if you’ve already done so.
Step 4: Save Changes
After selecting the new default branch, click on the “Save changes” button at the bottom of the page. GitHub will then update the repository settings to reflect the new default branch.
Step 5: Verify the Change
Once the changes have been saved, navigate back to the repository’s homepage and look at the top of the page. You should now see the new default branch name displayed there.
By following these simple steps, you can easily change the default branch on GitHub to match your project’s needs. Remember to communicate with your team members about the change, as it may affect their workflow.
It’s important to note that changing the default branch is not reversible. Once you’ve made the change, you’ll need to create a new branch if you want to switch back to the original branch name. So, make sure you’re confident about your decision before proceeding.
Conclusion
Changing the default branch on GitHub is a straightforward process that can help improve your project’s workflow and security. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that your repository is up-to-date with the latest branch naming conventions and practices.
