How to Change a Repository Name on GitHub?

Renaming a GitHub repository can be necessary for various reasons—perhaps the scope of your project has changed, or you want the name to better reflect its purpose. Fortunately, GitHub makes it easy to rename repositories while providing tools to manage the potential impacts of the change.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through the process of changing a repository name on GitHub and highlight key considerations to ensure a smooth transition.

Step 1: Understand the Impact of Renaming a Repository

Before renaming a repository, it’s essential to understand the implications:

1. Existing Links: The old repository URL will redirect to the new name automatically, but it’s good practice to update links in documentation, websites, or other integrations.
2. Local Clones: Users with local clones of the repository will need to update their remote URLs.
3. Custom Domains: If your repository is tied to a GitHub Pages site with a custom domain, the site should still work, but verify after renaming.
4. Webhooks and Integrations: Check any connected services or webhooks, as they may require updates.

Step 2: Rename the Repository on GitHub

Renaming a repository is a straightforward process:

1. Log in to GitHub
   Sign in to your GitHub account and navigate to the repository you want to rename.
2. Go to Repository Settings
   • Click on the Settings tab in the navigation bar at the top of the repository.
   • You must have admin rights to access the settings.
3. Rename the Repository
   • Scroll to the Repository Name section at the top of the settings page.
   • Enter the new repository name in the text field.
   • Click Rename to save the changes.

Step 3: Update Local Repository Remotes

If you or other collaborators have a local clone of the repository, you’ll need to update the remote URL to point to the renamed repository.

1. Open your terminal or command line.
2. Navigate to the local repository directory.
3. Update the remote URL using the following command:

git remote set-url origin https://github.com/<username>/<new-repository-name>.git

4. Verify the new remote URL:

git remote -v

This ensures that future git pull or git push operations interact with the renamed repository.

Step 4: Update References in Your Project

1. Update Links in Documentation:
   Check your project’s README, documentation, or website for references to the old repository name and update them with the new name.
2. Update Webhooks and Integrations:
   If your repository is integrated with CI/CD tools, third-party services, or has active webhooks, ensure that the new repository name is correctly reflected in their configurations.
3. Check GitHub Pages (if applicable):
   If the repository hosts a GitHub Pages site, visit the site to ensure it’s still functioning correctly.

Step 5: Communicate the Change

Renaming a repository can impact collaborators and users. It’s important to inform them about the change:

• Collaborators: Notify all contributors to update their local remotes and references.
• Users: If your repository is public, consider adding a note in the README about the change for a transitional period.

Best Practices for Renaming a Repository

1. Choose a Meaningful Name: Ensure the new name reflects the purpose of your project clearly.
2. Backup Your Repository: Before renaming, back up your repository locally or by creating a duplicate on GitHub.
3. Test Integrations: Verify that all integrations and automation workflows work as expected after the rename.
4. Monitor Redirects: While GitHub provides automatic redirects, periodically check for any broken links.

Conclusion

Changing a repository name on GitHub is a simple yet impactful action. By following this guide and adhering to best practices, you can ensure a seamless transition with minimal disruption to your workflows and collaborators.

A well-chosen repository name improves clarity and professionalism, making your projects more accessible and meaningful to users. Take the time to make the necessary updates and communicate the changes effectively.