Should SQLite *.db Files Be Stored in a Git Repository?

Storing SQLite database files (*.db) in Git repositories is discouraged, because Git is primarily designed for version control of source code and text-based files. If you include binary files, like SQLite database files, it can lead to several issues, such as the following:

• Size and Performance Concerns: Large SQLite databases can lead to slow repository cloning and increased storage requirements. This may not align with the principle of keeping Git repositories fast and efficient.
• Collaboration and Team Workflow: If multiple team members are collaborating on a project, pushing and pulling large binary files, such as SQLite database files, can lead to conflicts and difficulties in maintaining consistency.
• Data Security and Sensitivity: It's crucial to consider the nature of the data within your SQLite database. Storing sensitive or private information in a Git repository is generally discouraged, as it may not align with privacy and security standards.

Instead of directly storing SQLite *.db files in Git, consider the following practices:

• Store Schema Definitions: Include schema definitions in your repository to recreate the database structure easily. This helps in versioning the database structure separately from the data.
• Use Database Migration Tools/Scripts: Employ database migration tools or scripts to manage schema and data changes efficiently. This approach ensures a cleaner and more manageable Git history.

If you must store binary files like SQLite databases in Git, you can consider using Git Large File Storage (LFS). It is an extension designed to handle large files more efficiently, reducing performance and storage issues.