Recommended Free Tools
To make your first contribution, install Git on your computer, configure the name and email attached to your commits, authenticate to GitHub, then work on a separate branch and submit a pull request. If you cannot push to the project’s repository, fork it first. GitHub Desktop offers a graphical alternative to the command line.
Git and GitHub do different jobs
Git is the version-control software that tracks changes on your computer. GitHub hosts repositories online and provides tools for sharing changes, discussing them, and reviewing contributions. You can use Git from a terminal or through an app such as GitHub Desktop.
Two setup tasks are easy to confuse: Git identity tells Git what name and email to record on commits; authentication proves to GitHub that you are allowed to access an account or repository. Configuring a name and email does not sign you in.
Install Git and configure your commit identity
Install Git using the instructions for your operating system in GitHub’s Set up Git guide. Then open a terminal and set the name and email you want associated with your commits:
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute#1 Best Overall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.
git config --global user.name "Your Name"
git config --global user.email "you@example.com"
Replace the example values with your own. The name does not have to match your GitHub username. The email is the identity Git attaches to commits; if you want commits associated with your GitHub account, use an email address added to that account. The --global option applies the settings to repositories on this computer for your user account.
Choose how Git will authenticate to GitHub
GitHub documents both HTTPS and SSH for connecting to remote repositories. Its setup guide labels HTTPS as recommended. With HTTPS, a credential helper such as Git Credential Manager can handle credentials; GitHub account passwords are not supported for Git authentication.
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.
| Method | What setup involves | Practical consideration |
|---|---|---|
| HTTPS | Use the repository’s HTTPS address and authenticate through a supported credential method, such as Git Credential Manager. | GitHub recommends this route. Do not enter your regular account password as a Git password. See About remote repositories. |
| SSH | Generate an SSH key pair on each computer you will use, then add the public key to your GitHub account. | It requires key management. If an organization enforces SAML single sign-on, the key may also need organization authorization. See GitHub’s SSH documentation. |
Pick the method that fits your environment and follow the linked GitHub instructions for its current setup steps. Authentication is separate from the Git name and email you configured above.
Check whether to clone the project or fork it
First read the project’s contribution guide, development setup notes, and issue discussions. These instructions can specify how to install dependencies, run checks, format changes, or propose work; they take precedence over a generic workflow.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
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.
- If you have write access: clone the project’s repository and push your contribution branch there.
- If you do not have write access: fork the repository to your GitHub account, then clone your fork. You will push your branch to the fork and propose it back to the original project.
A fork is a copy hosted under your account; a clone is a local copy on your computer. They are different operations. GitHub’s open-source contribution guide explains the fork-and-contribute path.
Make a focused change on a separate branch
Choose an issue that fits your experience and the project’s needs. GitHub suggests starting with minor fixes, such as documentation improvements or small bug reports, to learn the codebase and contribution process. For an issue that is not marked “help wanted” or “good first issue,” check with maintainers that the proposed work is appropriate before investing time.
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
- Clone the repository. Use the HTTPS or SSH clone address shown by the repository. For example, an HTTPS clone command has this form:
git clone https://github.com/YOUR-USERNAME/docsReplace the example account and repository with the actual project. If you lack write access, use the address for your fork.
- Enter the project directory and create a topic branch.
cd REPOSITORY-NAME git checkout -b YOUR_TOPIC_BRANCHUse a short descriptive branch name, such as
fix-install-steps, rather than doing contribution work directly on the default branch.What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.Best Value
Anker USB C Hub, 5-in-1 USBC to HDMI Splitter with 4K Display- 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.
- Make the change and inspect it. Follow the project’s setup and testing instructions. Keep the change focused so reviewers can understand what it does.
- Commit the change. Stage only the files you intend to include, then commit with a clear message. For example:
git add path/to/file git commit -m "Clarify installation instructions" - Push the topic branch. For a first push, Git can set the remote branch to track your local branch:
git push -u origin YOUR_TOPIC_BRANCHWhen you cloned your own fork,
originnormally points to that fork. If you cloned the original repository directly, it points to that repository; use this route only if you have permission to push there.
Open a pull request for review
After pushing, open the repository on GitHub and start a pull request from your contribution branch. If you worked in a fork, select the original project as the base repository and your fork’s branch as the compare branch. If you pushed directly, select the project’s intended base branch and your topic branch. Confirm both repositories and branches before creating the pull request.
Describe what changed and why, link the issue if applicable, and include any checks you ran as requested by the project. A pull request is a place for review and discussion; it does not mean the change has been accepted or merged. Respond to maintainer feedback with further commits to the same branch when appropriate. See GitHub’s pull request quickstart.
Prefer a graphical interface? Use GitHub Desktop
GitHub Desktop is an alternative interface, not a prerequisite. GitHub’s Getting started with Git tutorial demonstrates signing in, creating a branch, committing changes, publishing the branch, and creating a pull request in Desktop. Follow the project’s contribution instructions whichever interface you use.
Quick Recap
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.

