GitHub Permissions Calculator
Understand GitHub API permissions at a glance. See exactly which API endpoints are accessible per role: read/write access for repositories, issues, PRs, deployments, workflows, code scanning. Compare scopes between fine-grained, classic tokens, and application permissions. Plan security configurations for bots and services.
Explore GitHub API permissions and role-based access
See exactly which GitHub API endpoints become available with each permission scope. Monitor token permissions: Repository access (read/write/admin), Pull Request access (check status, merge, reviews), Issue tracking (create, comment, close). Developer permissions: code quality checks, dependency review. Include scopes for Workflows, Deployments, Security scanning, Pages publishing. Understand how fine-grained tokens differ from classic GitHub tokens.
Security-focused permission management and audits
Every token should have the minimum required permissions. Use fine-grained application tokens for specific repositories instead of broad repo-level access. Audit existing tokens regularly for unnecessary permissions. Review scoped permissions for development vs production bots. Implement least privilege security model. Get instant visibility into permission changes and recommended simplifications.
Common GitHub tokens and their permission requirements
CI/CD development tokens need minimal repo access (pull code, read secrets). Deployment bots need write access to restricted repos, read-only access to others. Security scanning tools require code read permissions. Member management bots need org-level permissions. Runner administration requires limited repo write access. Compare against GitHub documentation for latest API permission requirements. Plan audits strategically.
Best practices for secure GitHub token configuration
Apply zero-trust security model - verify capabilities before allowing operations. Implement rotation schedules for all production tokens. Document permission requirements for every automated service. Regular security reviews of token usage and permissions. Use environment variables instead of storing tokens in files. Set appropriate expiration times for temporary tokens. Monitor for unauthorized usage patterns.