Guide

ClearCase Software

Version Control

ClearCase source control — also known as IBM ClearCase or Rational ClearCase — was once cutting-edge technology. Although many teams still use it, its popularity is waning. If you're still using ClearCase, it might be time to consider migrating to a new source control tool.

Use this guide to learn:

ClearCase Basics

If you just joined a company using ClearCase source control, you may not be aware of how it works. Review our ClearCase basics and ClearCase commands cheat sheet.

Architecture

ClearCase source control uses a file-based architecture where “elements” (files and directories) are versioned independently in repositories called Versioned Object Bases (VOBs).

Monolithic Codebase

If you are using ClearCase software, you more than likely have a monolith codebase to contain all your legacy code and version history.

Replication

To attempt to scale ClearCase source control, teams can add on ClearCase Multisite. But this adds a lot of complexity.

Branching

ClearCase branching is done at the file level. ClearCase UCM can add a later on top to aid in branching and merging, but it often restricts teams.

Security

Permissions in ClearCase software are enforced at the file/directory level. But these permissions are tied to the OS, making it difficult to manage complex rules across multiple platforms (e.g., Windows, Linux, Mac).

Learn ClearCase Source Control Basics

For teams with ClearCase software, there are challenges. Lack of support. Lack of updates. Slow performance. Complicated replication and branching. This leaves many teams looking for a new solution.

Compare ClearCase Source Control

There are a lot of version control systems out there. How are they similar? What makes them different?

ClearCase vs. SVN

ClearCase and SVN have historically been popular version control systems. But they present challenges for teams, especially as they scale.

ClearCase vs. Git

There are a lot of differences between ClearCase and Git. While they both offer teams the ability to branch and merge, there are key differences. If you have a huge codebase, you need to make sure your new solution can handle it.

ClearCase vs. Perforce

ClearCase and Perforce Helix Core are both used by big teams working on bigger projects. But where one slows down, the other doesn’t. Learn why three teams made the switch (and how much they saved).

Compare Source Control Solutions

Learn more about these version control systems and choose the right option for your team.

Migrating from ClearCase Software?

If you are looking to leave ClearCase source control behind, Helix Core — version control from Perforce — is the best solution. Why? Helix Core gives you:

  • Single source of truth for all code, large binary files, and digital assets.
  • Scalable architecture to keep global teams in sync without the added cost like ClearCase Multisite.
  • Enterprise-grade security, including SSO, AD/LDAP, and MFA.
  • Customizable, automated workflows — including Perforce Streams for branching.
  • Immutable change history to satisfy audit and compliance needs.

Migrating from ClearCase doesn’t need to be costly. You move your monorepo, modernize it, and decide what that new architecture is going to look like.

ClearCase Source Control Migration Guide

Check out our step-by-step guide to see how much time
(and money) you can save.

ClearCase Migration Guide

Switch From ClearCase Software to Helix Core

Try Helix Core for free — and start modernizing.

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