Step-By-Step Guide to Install Install GitLab Runner on Ubuntu

Step 1: Update Ubuntu Packages

First things first, let’s make sure our system is up-to-date. Open your terminal and type:

sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade

Step 2: Add the GitLab Runner Repository

GitLab Runner isn’t included in the usual list of software for Ubuntu. We need to add its special place called a repository.

Install Dependencies

We need to install something called curl to help us with the installation. If you don’t have it, type:

sudo apt install -y curl

Add the Repository

Now, let’s add the GitLab Runner’s repository by running this command:

curl -L https://packages.gitlab.com/install/repositories/runner/gitlab-runner/script.deb.sh | sudo bash

Step 3: Install GitLab Runner on Ubuntu 20.04 LTS

With the repository added, let’s install GitLab Runner. Type:

sudo apt install gitlab-runner

Step 4: Register GitLab Runner

Now, we need to tell GitLab Runner about our GitLab account.

Get Your GitLab Registration Token

Go to your project on the GitLab website, click on Settings > CI/CD, and copy the registration token.

Register the GitLab Runner

Back in your terminal, type:

sudo gitlab-runner register

Follow the instructions. You’ll need to paste your registration token and give a name to your Runner.

Step 5: Start and Enable its Service

Let’s make sure GitLab Runner is running and starts automatically when we boot our computer.

Start the service:

sudo gitlab-runner start

Enable auto-start:

sudo gitlab-runner enable

Step 6: Verify Runner Status

To check if GitLab Runner is up and running, type:

sudo gitlab-runner verify

You should see a message saying it’s valid, which means it’s ready to work.

GitLab Runner is a fantastic tool that works like a trusty helper for developers. It takes care of tasks that ensure your software runs smoothly, like testing and deploying. Installing GitLab Runner on your Ubuntu system is like giving yourself a superpower in software development. Automating many repetitive tasks makes your life easier, allowing you to focus on what you do best: writing code.

In this guide, we’ll walk through the steps to get GitLab Runner up and running on your Ubuntu 20.04 LTS system. You don’t need to be a computer expert to follow along; just have your Ubuntu machine ready, an internet connection, and a cup of coffee if you like.