Reporch IDE

Import a GitHub repository

Clone code from a connected GitHub repository or Remote URL into a new IDE workspace.

Overview

Use Import from GitHub when the project already exists in Git instead of starting from a template. You can choose a repository available to the connected GitHub account or enter an https Remote URL.

Reporch IDE import screen with GitHub sign-in and Remote URL options
The actual import screen. Choose a connected GitHub account or an https Remote URL.

Before you start

  • Connect GitHub to use its repository list.
  • Confirm read access to the repository's default branch.
  • Use an https URL such as https://github.com/owner/repository.git.
  • Identify the runtime, package manager, and required environment variables for the imported project.

Steps

1. Open Import from GitHub

Select Import from GitHub on the IDE start screen. In an active workspace, open the import flow from Source Control.

2. Choose Clone from GitHub

Select Clone from GitHub and wait for repositories to load. Use Refresh List if the displayed list is stale.

3. Verify the repository

Check owner, repository name, visibility, and intended branch. Distinguish similarly named forks by owner.

4. Create the workspace

Select the repository to begin. Do not repeat the action while cloning and DevBox preparation are in progress.

5. Verify the clone

Confirm root files in Explorer, then inspect remote information and current branch in Source Control. Use documented installation and run commands in the terminal.

Import with a Remote URL

1. Enter the URL

Paste the complete https clone URL into Import from Remote URL. If you copied the browser repository URL, append .git if the interface requires the clone form.

2. Validate it

Check protocol, owner, and repository name. A value without a protocol or a file path is not a repository URL.

3. Start the import

Use the action beside the field and wait for workspace creation. A private repository still requires access through the connected GitHub account.

Expected result

  • Root configuration such as package.json or pyproject.toml
  • Current branch and remote in Source Control
  • Installation and run commands from README
  • Required key names in .env.example
  • Development server port and Preview availability

Troubleshooting

  • Repository not found: Check the owner, name, and account read permission.
  • Private repository is absent: Review GitHub access scope and refresh the list.
  • Files are empty after clone: Wait for runtime readiness, then refresh Explorer.
  • Project does not run: Import does not supply dependencies or secrets automatically. Follow README and attach the required environment variables.
Reporch Team