What is Source Code Management (SCM)?

Source Code Management (SCM) is a system that helps developers track, manage, and collaborate on software projects. It ensures that:

✅ Code changes are recorded.

✅ Multiple developers can work on the same project.

✅ Previous versions of the code can be restored if needed.

SCM can be classified into two types:

1. Centralized Version Control System (CVCS)
2. Distributed Version Control System (DVCS)

1️⃣ Centralized Version Control System (CVCS) ⇒

How does CVCS work?

• In CVCS, a single central server stores all the project files and version history.
• Developers pull the latest code from the central server, make changes, and then push them back.
• Example: SVN (Subversion), Perforce, Team Foundation Server (TFS)

🔴 Drawbacks of CVCS:

🚫 No local access – Developers need an active network connection to work.

🚫 Single point of failure – If the server crashes, all data is lost.