Last updated: March 2026
Use deep links in GitKraken Desktop to share or open specific remote repositories, commits, branches, or tags. This allows your team to quickly access relevant project context with a single click.
Requirements and limits
- Scope: Deep links to repositories, commits, branches, and tags
- Integration requirement: The repository must be hosted through a supported GitKraken integration
- Local access behavior: If the repository is already open, GitKraken navigates directly to the referenced item
- Clone fallback: If the repository is not cloned locally, GitKraken opens a clone dialog with the URL pre-filled
- Multiple-copy behavior: If more than one local copy exists, GitKraken prompts the user to choose which one to use
- Setup note: No extra configuration is required beyond having access to the repository locally or through cloning
Quick Start
To copy a deep link:
- Right-click a branch, commit, tag, or repository in the Commit Graph or Left Panel and select the copy link option.
- Paste the copied link into tools like Jira, GitHub, Slack, or Microsoft Teams.
When a teammate clicks your link:
- If the repository is already open, GitKraken Desktop navigates directly to the referenced item.
- If the repository is not open, GitKraken Desktop attempts to open it automatically.
- If the repository is not cloned, a clone dialog appears with the URL pre-filled.
- If multiple local copies exist, you will be prompted to select which copy to use.
Deep links are available for any hosted remote repository that is connected through a GitKraken integration. No additional configuration is required beyond having the repository accessible locally.
How to copy a link from GitKraken Desktop
Right-click on a branch, commit, tag, or repository to copy a deep link.
These links can be pasted into tools like Jira, GitHub, Slack, or Microsoft Teams.
How to open a deep link
If someone sends you a GitKraken Desktop link:
- Click the link
- GitKraken Desktop will open and navigate to the specified item
What happens when a deep link opens
GitKraken Desktop handles links dynamically depending on your local setup:
- Repository is not open: The app will try to open it automatically.
- Repository is not cloned: You’ll be prompted to clone and the modal will be pre-filled.
- Multiple copies of the repo: You’ll be prompted to choose which local copy to use.
Deep links streamline collaboration by ensuring you and your teammates view the same Git objects instantly, even across different environments.
