Step-by-Step Guide: How to Install Git on Windows and Mac in 2025

Git is the most popular version control system in the world, used by developers to track code changes, collaborate with teams, and manage projects efficiently. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced programmer, knowing how to install Git on your system is the first step to mastering version control.

This guide will walk you through the step-by-step process of installing Git on both Windows and macOS in 2025, ensuring you get started without any issues.

What is Git?

Git is an open-source distributed version control system created by Linus Torvalds in 2005. It allows multiple developers to work on a project simultaneously without interfering with each other’s work. Git is the foundation for platforms like GitHub, GitLab, and Bitbucket.

Free and open-source
Tracks every code change
Allows collaboration on large projects
Works offline and online

Installing Git on Windows

Step 1: Download Git for Windows

Visit the official Git download page.
Click on the Windows option to download the installer (.exe file).

Step 2: Run the Installer

Locate the downloaded file in your Downloads folder.
Double-click to start the installation process.

Step 3: Configure Installation Settings

Adjust PATH environment: Choose "Git from the command line and also from 3rd-party software" for easier access.
Default editor: Select an editor like Vim or Visual Studio Code.
HTTPS transport backend: Use the default option (OpenSSL).

Step 4: Complete the Installation

Click Install and wait for the process to finish.
Check the option to launch Git Bash after installation.

Installing Git on macOS

Method 1: Using Homebrew (Recommended)

Open the Terminal app.

Install Homebrew if you don’t have it:

/bin/bash -c "$(curl -fsSL https://raw.githubusercontent.com/Homebrew/install/HEAD/install.sh)"

Once Homebrew is installed, run:
```
brew install git
```

Method 2: Downloading from Git’s Website

Go to the Git official download page.
Click on macOS and download the installer.
Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions.

Verifying the Installation

After installing Git, you need to confirm that it works properly.

git --version

This command should display the installed Git version.

Configuring Git After Installation

Once Git is installed, it’s essential to configure your user details to track your commits properly.

git config --global user.name "Your Name"
git config --global user.email "your@email.com"

Why You Should Learn Git

Essential skill for developers
Makes collaboration seamless
Ensures version control for your projects
Integrates with all major development tools

Final Thoughts

Installing Git on Windows or Mac is a straightforward process, and once you have it set up, you can start working on your coding projects with better control and collaboration. Remember to keep Git updated to benefit from the latest features and security improvements.

Now that Git is ready, you can move on to creating your first repository, cloning projects, and contributing to open-source code.