Perforce is the Fast Software Configuration Management (SCM) System, providing all the features of leading-edge SCM, geared for high performance. Built upon a true client/server architecture, Perforce doesn't rely on network file access, and works quickly from initial deployment through to mature, large-scale productivity. Moreover, Perforce stores and presents information about the user's workspace in ways that streamline the user interface, making it extremely easy to use. The usability of Perforce is not at the expense of function: with atomic change transactions, flexible client views, and a powerful branching model, the Perforce system provides a comprehensive SCM environment.
High throughput and a small footprint characterize the client/server software that implements the Perforce system. Perforce's main component is its server, a stand-alone, connection-based program that manages access to a central file repository, or "depot", on the server's machine. Users access Perforce through efficient client programs, invoked locally on workstations located anywhere on a short- or long-haul network.
Typically each engineer user has his or her own dedicated client workspace, and may also use other special-purpose or project client workspaces. Each client defines a view of a subset of files from the repository. The client workspace contains physical copies of the files in its view. |