Software is the main part of any hardware to become worthy. Version-controlling systems are used in the software world. Well, two of the main versions of control systems are used in today’s world. CVS and SVN.
They both have their own set of advantages and disadvantages. However, they are slightly different from each other.
Key Takeaways
- CVS is a Concurrent Versioning System used for version control of source code files, while SVN is a Subversion Version Control System used for version control of source code files.
- CVS is an older version control system replaced by SVN, a more advanced and modern system with better features and capabilities.
- SVN is more user-friendly than CVS, with better support for binary files and a more intuitive user interface.
CVS vs SVN
The difference between the concurrent versions system and Apache subversion is that CVS is a free and client-based version controlling system while the SVN is a high-end, advanced and latest version of the controlling system. Also, the release date of CVS is 1990, while it’s 2000 of SVN.
The CVS or concurrent versions system is necessary for any complex enterprise application. The main usages of CVS are that it saves the changes made into the file. That gives an upper hand to the developer to compare between various other versions of control systems.
The SVN, on the other hand, is a new and latest technology software version ruled out in 2000 as Apache subversion. It’s a distributed version controlling system.
It facilitates the coder or developer to make changes in the code and maintain the past and new versions of files like source code, website pages, and docs. It’s used by several projects like GCC, Pascal, and Apache software foundation.
Comparison Table
| Parameters of Comparison | CVS | SVN |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | CVS is a free availability, client-oriented version controlling system in software development. | SVN is an Apache subversion that is the advanced, hi-tech, and latest technology in software development. |
| Full form | CVS stands for concurrent versions system. | SVN stands for Apache subversion. |
| Developing team | It is developed by the CVS team and released in 1990. | It’s developed by Apache software foundation and released in 2000. |
| Supporting parts | Concurrent versions system does not support atomic commits but supports SSH. | Apache Subversion supports atomic commits and also HTTP and HTTPS. |
| Licence | CVS is GNU General public license. | SVN us Apache license 2.0. |
What is CVS?
In the field of technology, where everything is almost software-based, it’s important to develop software that eases the work and unloads the burden remaining on shoulders. Developers keep working continuously to make eye-catching and high-end software that can meet requirements.
CVS or concurrent versions system is a free-of-cost, client-based software development software. With CVS, many developers can work on the same project at the same time. This saves time and capital both.
Also, it allows collaboration among the team workers to enhance workability and functionality. This collaboration part plays a major role in bringing the people to work together as a team and eventually raises the bar of development.
CVS is basically following client-server architecture. The main server keeps a record of previous and current source codes and versions. Also, it allows a client to access these files and get a copy of the projects and codes.
It’s easy to connect a client and a server machine through a local area network or LAN.
CVS has many local developers who constantly update and enhance the software. Usually, the server works on UNIX, and clients run on operating platforms like Windows, Mac, and Linux.
It allows the developers to make necessary changes to make the user experience more good and healthy. The client can use the UPDATE command to update their local copies, with the new versions rolling out with time.
What is SVN?
SVN, or Apache Subversion, is a distributed network software versioning control system. It facilitates the coder to make important changes in the code, keeping the previous and recent source code files intact.
SVN is majorly used by many other projects like Apache software foundation, FREE Pascal, GCC, SourceForge, etc. The SVN is one of a kind thing rolled out by the Apache software foundation that facilitates the clients and the developers at the same time.
There are various features SVN incorporate. It allows removing files, renaming files, copying the data and important documents, moving, and many more. There’s a binding language like C#, Java, Python, Perl, and Ruby. Also, Apache subversion has a tracking feature known as merge tracking.
SVN allows three types of repository storage. One of them Is Berkeley DB. The original SVN development used this kind of technology. Well, Berkeley has some limitations.
When a program accesses the database, it could terminate or crash. FSFS is another type of repository storage that works way faster than the Berkeley DB backend. It takes less disk space in comparison.
The last one is FSX. That one is a new version of FSFS and is majorly used as a better alternative since it covers approximately all drawbacks of FSFS. Updates make everything easier and better than before indeed.
Main Differences Between CVS and SVN
- The CVS is a concurrent version system that’s free and client-based software, while the SVN is an Apache subversion that version controlling system and is high-end, new, and has advanced features.
- CVS was rolled out in 1990, while the SVN was rolled out after ten years of CVS. That is in 2000.
- The CVS team develops CVS, while the Apache software foundation develops SVN.
- CVS has GNU general public license, while the SVN us an Apache license 2.0.
- CVS doesn’t support atomic commits but supports SSH, while the SVN supports atomic commits, HTTP and HTTPS.
- https://wiki.lbto.org/pub/FLAO/MiscManuals/cederqvist-1.11.3.pdf
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/abs/10.1161/cir.0b013e3182031a3c
Last Updated : 16 June, 2023
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Sandeep Bhandari holds a Bachelor of Engineering in Computers from Thapar University (2006). He has 20 years of experience in the technology field. He has a keen interest in various technical fields, including database systems, computer networks, and programming. You can read more about him on his bio page.
I think the article overlooks some important aspects of version control systems. It seems to provide a biased view towards SVN, and fails to acknowledge the potential benefits of CVS.
I tend to agree with you, Qmatthews. While SVN has its advantages, CVS also has its merits, and the article should have presented a more balanced view.
That’s an interesting perspective, Qmatthews. It’s important to consider all aspects before making a decision, and the article might have been more balanced in its comparison.
The article seems to favor SVN over CVS, but it does provide valuable insights into the features and differences of both version control systems.
I see your point, Carlie67. While the comparison might seem biased, it’s undeniable that the article offers important information for developers.
It’s true that the article appears to lean towards SVN, but the content itself is still informative and useful for understanding version control systems.
The article’s focus on the advantages and features of SVN over CVS provides a comprehensive understanding of how version control systems have evolved over time.
I agree, Liam83. The comparison highlights the progression in version control systems, shedding light on the advancements and capabilities of SVN.
This article provides a comprehensive and detailed comparison between CVS and SVN, making it easier for developers to understand the differences and choose the best version control system for their projects.
I completely agree, Joseph. The detailed information in the article is very helpful for those who are looking to make an informed decision about version control systems.
The article offers a well-structured and insightful explanation of both CVS and SVN, which is beneficial for developers looking to enhance their understanding of version control systems.
I completely agree, Megan. The detailed information and explanations in the article are an excellent resource for developers seeking to expand their knowledge of version control.
While the article provides a detailed comparison between CVS and SVN, it seems to downplay the significance of CVS and emphasize the benefits of SVN.
Your observation is noteworthy, Jacob88. The article might benefit from a more balanced approach in presenting the strengths and drawbacks of both CVS and SVN.
The information provided in this article is very valuable for those who are looking to understand the differences between CVS and SVN. It’s well-structured and easy to follow.
I couldn’t agree more, Faye. The detailed comparison makes it easier for developers to grasp the nuances of version control systems.
I’m glad you found the article helpful, Faye. The clarity and structure of the comparison make it an excellent resource for developers.
The in-depth comparison between CVS and SVN is a valuable resource for developers, providing clarity on the differences and features of both version control systems.
I concur, Thompson. The article’s detailed analysis of CVS and SVN is an important reference for developers navigating version control system choices.
I share the same view, Thompson. The detailed comparison truly adds value to developers by aiding them in understanding the nuances of version control systems.
The thorough comparison between CVS and SVN offered in the article is a valuable asset for developers seeking to gain a deeper understanding of version control systems.
Absolutely, Lee Mia. The article’s comprehensive analysis of CVS and SVN is a significant resource for developers to enhance their knowledge and decision-making.
I completely agree, Lee Mia. The insights provided in the article are crucial for developers to make informed decisions about version control systems.
The article’s comparison table succinctly outlines the differences between CVS and SVN, making it a valuable reference for developers to make informed decisions.
I agree, Ladams. The detailed comparison table offers a clear overview of the distinctions between CVS and SVN, aiding developers in their decision-making process.
The comparison table is indeed a highlight of the article, providing developers with a clear and concise understanding of the differences between CVS and SVN.