Fatal: git repository not found (but can go to URL) in Azure DevOps: A Common Issue and its Solutions
Encountering the "Fatal: git repository not found" error in Azure DevOps can be frustrating, especially when you can access the repository through its URL. This article will guide you through understanding the causes of this error and provide effective solutions to resolve it.
The Scenario: Git Repository Found Online, But Not in DevOps
Imagine this: you're trying to connect your local repository to your Azure DevOps project, but instead of a successful connection, you receive the dreaded "Fatal: git repository not found" error. You double-check the URL, and it leads you directly to the repository, so what's going on?
Let's look at a typical example:
$ git remote add origin https://dev.azure.com/MyOrganization/MyProject/_git/MyRepo
$ git push origin master
fatal: repository 'https://dev.azure.com/MyOrganization/MyProject/_git/MyRepo' not found.
This error usually occurs due to one of the following reasons:
- Incorrect URL: While you might see the repository when accessing the URL in your browser, the URL you're using in your git commands might be slightly different or incomplete.
- Authentication issues: Azure DevOps requires you to authenticate to access its repositories. If you're not logged in or your authentication details are incorrect, you won't be able to access the repository.
- Repository access permissions: Ensure you have the necessary permissions to access the repository in Azure DevOps.
Solutions to the "Fatal: git repository not found" Error
Here's how to troubleshoot and fix this error:
- Double-check the URL: Carefully examine the URL you're using in your
git remote addcommand. It should match the exact URL of your Azure DevOps repository. Ensure it includes the correct organization, project, and repository name. - Verify Authentication:
- Personal Access Token (PAT): If you're using a PAT, ensure it has the correct permissions to access your repository. Generate a new PAT if necessary and update it in your Git configuration. You can find more information on PATs here: https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/azure/devops/repos/git/use-personal-access-tokens-to-authenticate?view=azure-devops
- Azure Active Directory (AAD) Authentication: If you're using AAD authentication, ensure you are correctly signed in to Azure DevOps with the appropriate permissions. You can find more information about AAD authentication here: https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/azure/devops/repos/git/auth-aad?view=azure-devops
- Check Repository Access Permissions: Make sure you have the necessary permissions to access the repository in Azure DevOps. Contact your project administrator if you suspect any permission issues.
Important Note: If you're using a shared repository, verify that the contributor settings allow others to push code.
Additional Tips
- Clear your Git Credentials: In some cases, clearing your Git credentials and re-authenticating can help resolve the issue. You can do this using the
git credential-manageror by removing the relevant credentials from the Git configuration file. - Restart Git: Sometimes restarting Git can help resolve unexpected errors. Close any Git clients you are using, then reopen them.
Conclusion
The "Fatal: git repository not found" error is often caused by minor misconfigurations or authentication issues. By following the steps outlined above and double-checking your URL, authentication, and permissions, you can quickly resolve this error and get back to working on your code.
If you are still facing issues, it is always helpful to check the official Azure DevOps documentation for more in-depth information on troubleshooting common problems: https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/azure/devops/repos/git/
