Cloning a GitHub repository is one of the first things every developer learns—and for good reason. Whether you’re working on a team project, testing open-source code, or building your own app, cloning lets you copy a project from GitHub directly to your computer in seconds.
In this step-by-step guide, you’ll learn how to clone a GitHub repository to your local machine using Terminal, Git Bash, VS Code, IntelliJ, Eclipse, Jupyter Notebook, and more—on both Windows and macOS.
What Does “Clone a GitHub Repository” Mean?
When you clone a GitHub repository, you create a full local copy of a remote project, including:
- All source code
- Commit history
- Branches
This allows you to edit, run, and test the project on your computer—even offline.
What You Need Before Cloning
Before getting started, make sure you have:
- A GitHub account (free)
- Git installed on your system (Windows or Mac)
- Internet connection
- Optional: A code editor like VS Code, IntelliJ, or Eclipse
If you’re new to setting up your system, these guides may help:
👉 How to install Google Chrome on Mac
👉 How to change language in Windows 11/10/7
How to Clone a GitHub Repository in Terminal (Mac & Linux)
This is the most common and fastest method.
Steps:
- Open Terminal
- Navigate to your desired folder:
cd Documents - Copy the repository URL from GitHub
- Run:
git clone https://github.com/username/repository-name.git
✅ This method works perfectly if you want to clone a GitHub repository in terminal on Mac or Linux.
How to Clone a GitHub Repository on Windows (Git Bash)
If you’re on Windows, Git Bash gives you the same experience.
Steps:
- Install Git for Windows
- Open Git Bash
- Paste the command:
git clone https://github.com/username/repository-name.git
This is the easiest way to clone a GitHub repository with Git Bash on Windows.
How to Clone a GitHub Repository in VS Code
VS Code makes cloning beginner-friendly.
Steps:
- Open VS Code
- Press Ctrl + Shift + P
- Select Git: Clone
- Paste the repository URL
- Choose a local folder
VS Code will automatically download and open the project.
✅ Ideal if you’re learning how to clone a GitHub repository in VS Code.
How to Clone a GitHub Repository in IntelliJ IDEA
Perfect for Java and enterprise developers.
Steps:
- Open IntelliJ IDEA
- Click Get from VCS
- Select Git
- Paste the repository URL
- Click Clone
This is the cleanest way to clone a GitHub repository in IntelliJ.
How to Clone a GitHub Repository in Eclipse
Eclipse users can clone repos without touching the terminal.
Steps:
- Open Eclipse
- Go to File → Import
- Choose Git → Projects from Git
- Select Clone URI
- Paste the repository link
Now you know how to clone a GitHub repository in Eclipse step by step.
How to Clone a GitHub Repository in Jupyter Notebook
Great for data science and machine learning projects.
Steps:
- Open Jupyter Notebook
- Click New → Terminal
- Run:
git clone https://github.com/username/repository-name.git
This is the simplest way to clone a GitHub repository in Jupyter Notebook.
How to Clone a GitHub Repository on Mac
Mac users can choose between:
- Terminal
- VS Code
- IntelliJ
The Terminal method is the fastest:
git clone https://github.com/username/repository-name.git
This covers how to clone a GitHub repository on Mac without extra tools.
How to Clone a GitHub Repository to Your Local Machine (Any OS)
No matter your system, the core command stays the same:
git clone REPOSITORY_URL
This creates a local project folder containing the entire repository.
Common Git Clone Errors (And Fixes)
Error: git: command not found
✔️ Install Git and restart your terminal
Error: Permission denied
✔️ Use HTTPS instead of SSH or check credentials
Error: Slow cloning
✔️ Disable VPN or check network (you may want to turn off Airplane Mode)
Why Developers Prefer Cloning Over Download ZIP
| Feature | Clone | ZIP |
|---|---|---|
| Version history | ✅ | ❌ |
| Git commands | ✅ | ❌ |
| Updates & pull | ✅ | ❌ |
Cloning keeps your project future-proof.
Frequently Asked Questions (Quick Answers)
How do I clone a GitHub repository to my computer?
Use:
git clone repository_url
This downloads the project to your local system.
Can I clone a GitHub repository without Git?
Yes, but only as a ZIP file. Git is required for updates and version control.
Is cloning a GitHub repository free?
Yes. GitHub cloning is 100% free ($0).
Do I need a GitHub account to clone a public repo?
No. Anyone can clone public repositories.
Final Thoughts
Knowing how to clone a GitHub repository to your local machine is a must-have skill for developers, students, and tech enthusiasts. Whether you’re using VS Code, IntelliJ, Eclipse, Jupyter Notebook, Mac, or Windows—the process is fast, free, and powerful.
Once cloned, you’re ready to code, collaborate, and build like a pro.