CVS

CVS is a version control system that plays a big role in Source Configuration Management (SCM). With CVS, you can keep track of the history of your source files and documents. Think of it like a more advanced version of free software tools like RCS, PRCS, and Aegis.

Why Use CVS?

CVS is super popular and widely used all around the world, especially in many free software projects. It's reliable and gets the job done!

Advantages Over RCS

While CVS saves file history just like RCS does, it brings some significant perks to the table:

• It can run scripts that help log CVS operations or enforce specific policies for your site.


• The client/server setup allows developers who are far apart or on slow internet to work together as one team. The version history is stored on a central server while each developer has their own copy of all files they're working on. Although you need a network connection for actions like check-ins or updates, you don't need it to edit or manage current versions locally.


• If different teams want to keep their own versions due to location or policy differences, CVS lets them import versions from other teams (even if they don't use CVS!). Then, it can merge those changes with the latest files.


• CVS allows unreserved checkouts so multiple developers can work on the same files at once without stepping on each other's toes!


• The flexible modules database helps by mapping names to components in larger software distributions. This means you can apply names to collections of directories and files easily.


• You'll find that CVS servers run on most Unix systems, and there are clients available for Windows NT/95, OS/2, and VMS too! Plus, CVS can also work in what's called server mode against local repositories on Windows 95/NT.

Getting Started with CVS

If you're ready to jump into using CVS for your projects or just want more info about its features, check out this link: Download CVS now!