We shall go through a step-by-step guide to install, register and finally configure a GitLab runner.

Installing GitLab runner manually via GNU or Linux

Step 1: Add the GitLab official repository

# Linux x86-64
sudo wget -O /usr/local/bin/gitlab-runner https://gitlab-runner-downloads.s3.amazonaws.com/latest/binaries/gitlab-runner-linux-amd64

# Linux x86
sudo wget -O /usr/local/bin/gitlab-runner https://gitlab-runner-downloads.s3.amazonaws.com/latest/binaries/gitlab-runner-linux-386

# Linux arm
sudo wget -O /usr/local/bin/gitlab-runner https://gitlab-runner-downloads.s3.amazonaws.com/latest/binaries/gitlab-runner-linux-arm

Step 2: Grant it access and permission to execute the task

sudo chmod +x /usr/local/bin/gitlab-runner

Step 3: Create a GitLab CI user for ease of access

sudo useradd --comment 'GitLab Runner' --create-home gitlab-runner --shell /bin/bash

Step 4: Install it and run it as a service

sudo gitlab-runner install --working-directory /home/project/gitlab-runner-builds --user <vps-user>

sudo gitlab-runner start

Step 5: The next step is to register the runner

How to register a Runner under GNU/Linux

Step 1: Run the following command exactly as given below

sudo gitlab-runner register

Step 2. Enter your GitLab instance URL (example provided)

Enter the gitlab-ci coordinator URL:

https://gitlab.com

Step 3. Enter the token you have when you registered the Runner

Enter the gitlab-ci token for this runner:

<your-token-id>

Your gitlab-ci token ID can be copied from your account:

Your-Project-repository→ Settings → CI/CD → Runners → Specific Runners → token-id

gitlab token

4. Enter a short context for the Runner (this can be changed later in GitLab’s UI)

Enter the gitlab-ci description for this runner:

[hostame] my-runner

5. Enter the Runner executor

In this case, we chose a shell:

Enter the following executor: ssh, docker+machine, docker-ssh+machine, kubernetes, docker, parallels, virtualbox, docker-ssh, shell:

shell

Conclusion

In conclusion, GitLab Runner is a powerful tool for automating software testing and deployment. By following the step-by-step guide outlined in this article, you can install, register, and configure GitLab Runner manually on GNU/Linux, granting it the necessary permissions to execute tasks, and registering it with GitLab. With GitLab Runner up and running, you can enjoy a seamless continuous integration and deployment process, allowing you to focus on delivering high-quality software. Whether you are a developer, DevOps engineer, or IT professional, GitLab Runner is a valuable addition to your toolset.