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Version Check Functionality

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2015

GitLab has introduced a version check functionality to identify and alert users of outdated installations. This feature aims to improve security, user experience, and reduce the creation of duplicate issues by making users aware of available updates. The system works by loading a small image from a version check server, which indicates the update status (up-to-date, out-of-date, or critical security update). The request includes the GitLab version and server hostname (via HTTP referer) to gather usage insights, with an opt-out mechanism for users who wish to disable external connections. This initiative requires ongoing maintenance of the version check server.

2015

Version Check Functionality

5/7/2015

Introduced a version check functionality that loads an image from version.gitlab.com on the `/help` page. The image's color (green, yellow, red) indicates the update status of the GitLab installation. Image requests include the GitLab version and server hostname (via HTTP referer) for usage analytics. An opt-out mechanism is provided in application settings. This feature aims to address security concerns and improve user experience by encouraging timely upgrades.