Docs: Add documentation for gitlab_shell_git_timeout configuration setting

Problem to solve

The gitlab_shell_git_timeout setting controls repository clone/fetch timeouts and is especially relevant for Geo deployments with limited bandwidth.

Currently:

  • The setting is not clearly documented in admin or rails documentation

  • It is only indirectly mentioned in Geo troubleshooting pages

  • The default value (10800 seconds) and its purpose are not explained in a single, discoverable location

This can make it difficult for administrators to understand and diagnose Geo sync timeouts.

Further details

Adding clear documentation would help:

  • Geo administrators operating over slow or constrained networks

  • Reduce confusion when repository syncs fail due to timeouts

  • Reduce reliance on troubleshooting only documentation

Audience: Gitlab admins managing geo replication.

Proposal

  • Add explicit documentation for gitlab_shell_git_timeout in admin docs

  • Explain:

    • What the setting controls

    • Default value (10800 seconds)

    • When and why it may need adjustment (e.g. large repos, slow links)

  • Link or reference existing Geo troubleshooting documentation where relevant

Who can address the issue

  • Contributors familiar with Gitlab geo and admin documentation

  • Guidance from geo maintainers on preferred documentation location would be helpful

Other links/references

Edited by 🤖 GitLab Bot 🤖