Differences Between Running GitLab on a Local Server vs Jenkins with a GitLab Instance

[henry-AY]

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Hi,

I'm exploring options for managing CI/CD workflows and version control in my environment. I’d like to understand the key differences and considerations between:

1. Hosting a local server that runs GitLab exclusively.
2. Using a server running Jenkins that integrates with an instance of GitLab.

Specifically, I’m curious about:

• Performance: How do resource demands and system performance compare?
• Workflow Integration: Are there significant differences in how Jenkins complements GitLab workflows versus using GitLab’s CI/CD capabilities natively?
• Setup and Maintenance: Which setup is easier to configure and maintain in the long term?
• Scalability: Which is better suited for scaling to larger teams and projects?

Thanks!

[0xriasaat]

1. Performance
   GitLab Exclusive:
   GitLab is resource-intensive since it handles both version control and CI/CD. It needs significant CPU and memory, especially for large teams or projects. Its built-in CI/CD is optimized for performance.

Jenkins with GitLab:
Jenkins is modular. You can dedicate resources to pipelines, while GitLab handles version control. However, integrating the two adds some overhead.

2. Workflow Integration
   GitLab Only:
   Pipelines live in .gitlab-ci.yml, making the workflow seamless. Built-in tools like Merge Request Pipelines and Auto DevOps simplify the process. Everything happens in one place.

Jenkins with GitLab:
Jenkins has more customization, it also has plugins. Integration with GitLab takes extra work, like setting up webhooks and defining Jenkinsfiles.

3. Setup and Maintenance
   GitLab Only:
   Easier to set up since CI/CD is built-in. Maintenance focuses on GitLab updates and backups. It’s straightforward but can get complex if requirements grow.

Jenkins with GitLab:
Setup is more complicated. You’ll manage Jenkins, plugins, and GitLab integration. Troubleshooting issues between the two can be tricky.

4. Scalability
   GitLab Alone:
   Scales well for teams. Supports Kubernetes and cloud runners. One place to manage version control and CI/CD.

Jenkins with GitLab:
Very scalable for CI/CD. Adding agents is easy but you’ll have to scale GitLab and Jenkins separately.

Bottom Line
Go with GitLab CI/CD if you want simplicity and an all-in-one tool. Go with Jenkins with GitLab in case you need highly customized workflows, or are using Jenkins already. For most teams, GitLab is easier and faster to handle.

[0xriasaat]

I have done this by asking google and ai so it is almost 98% correct

[henry-AY]

Thank you, I was considering doing that as well, but I wanted to just double-check with anyone on the forums. This looks good though, thank you!