To clone a private Git repository, use an account or SSH key that has permission to access it, copy its SSH or HTTPS clone URL, and run git clone <copied-URL>. With HTTPS, use a personal access token at the password prompt when the host requires one—not your ordinary account password. Then enter the new local directory with cd.
Before cloning: confirm access and copy the right URL
- Sign in to the repository host and confirm you can view the private project. If you cannot, ask its owner or an administrator to grant access; changing the command cannot bypass repository permissions.
- Install Git and open a terminal. Installation steps vary by operating system.
- On the repository page, use its Code or clone menu to copy the exact SSH or HTTPS URL. Choose the URL that matches the credentials you have configured.
GitHub lists missing repository permission among the causes of clone failures. GitHub’s cloning troubleshooting guide can help distinguish an access problem from an incorrect URL.
Choose SSH or HTTPS
| Method | Credential | When it fits |
|---|---|---|
| SSH | An SSH key associated with an account that has repository access | Useful for repeated Git work after key setup; GitLab recommends SSH as an authentication method. |
| HTTPS | A host-supported token or credential helper, depending on the host and account policy | Useful when you do not want to set up SSH or need a connection that works behind a firewall or proxy. GitHub says HTTPS clone URLs are available regardless of repository visibility. |
There is no universal winner across operating systems, networks, and enterprise policies. Follow the repository host’s current instructions and your organization’s access rules. GitLab describes SSH in its SSH documentation and recommends it in its Git cloning documentation.
Clone with SSH
- Configure an SSH key for the hosting account that has access to the repository. The public key is added to the account; keep the private key on your computer.
- Copy the repository’s SSH clone URL from its project page.
- Run the command, replacing the placeholder with the URL you copied:
git clone <copied-SSH-URL> cd <repository-directory>
GitLab notes that SSH can authenticate without requiring credentials for every Git operation. For a GitHub organization that uses SAML single sign-on, the SSH key may also need authorization for that organization; see GitHub’s SSH key authorization guidance.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
Clone with HTTPS
- Copy the repository’s HTTPS clone URL.
- Run:
git clone <copied-HTTPS-URL> - If Git prompts for a password, enter a personal access token when required by the host. GitHub instructs users to use a token instead of an account password for HTTPS Git operations. GitLab also documents tokens and OAuth credential helpers for HTTPS; with two-factor authentication enabled, its guidance identifies token scopes such as
read_repositoryorwrite_repository. The appropriate option depends on the host and account policy.
Use a credential helper if you want Git to manage credentials and reduce repeated prompts. Avoid putting a token directly into the URL or command, for example as https://user:token@host/...; GitLab warns that doing so can leave the token in shell history. See GitLab’s cloning guidance and its token security documentation.
Check the cloned repository
A successful git clone downloads the project files, history, and metadata into a new working directory and configures a remote connection for later synchronization. The directory is ordinarily named after the repository. Enter it to inspect the files:
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
cd <repository-directory>Fix common private-repository clone errors
“Repository not found” or access denied
- Check for a typo or outdated URL by copying the clone URL again from the project page.
- Confirm that the account used for HTTPS, or the account associated with the SSH key, can view the private repository.
- For SSH, make sure the key is attached to the account with repository access. GitHub’s troubleshooting guide covers permission-related clone failures.
HTTPS rejects the account password
Use the token or credential helper supported by the host rather than substituting the ordinary account password. GitHub’s instructions for HTTPS Git authentication specify a personal access token at the password prompt.
A token is rejected
Check that the token is permitted to access this repository and includes the required permissions. GitLab’s options for HTTPS authentication, including token scopes when two-factor authentication is enabled, are described in its cloning documentation. Exact choices vary by host and account policy.
Recommended Free Tools
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
SSH works elsewhere but not with an organization
If the organization uses SAML single sign-on, check whether your key must be authorized for it. GitHub explains the process in its SSH key authorization instructions.
A token was included in a command or saved in shell history
Treat an exposed token as compromised: revoke or replace it using the host’s security controls, then authenticate through a prompt or credential helper instead. GitLab explains the shell-history risk in its token security documentation.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
