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stage: Create
group: Source Code
info: To determine the technical writer assigned to the Stage/Group associated with this page, see https://about.gitlab.com/handbook/engineering/ux/technical-writing/#assignments
type: reference
---

# Diff limits administration **(FREE SELF)**

You can set a maximum size for display of diff files (patches).

For details about diff files, [view changes between files](../project/merge_requests/changes.md).
Read more about the [built-in limits for merge requests and diffs](../../administration/instance_limits.md#merge-requests).

## Maximum diff patch size

Diff files which exceed this value are presented as 'too large' and cannot
be expandable. Instead of an expandable view, a link to the blob view is
shown.

Patches greater than 10% of this size are automatically collapsed, and a
link to expand the diff is presented.
This affects merge requests and branch comparison views.

To set the maximum diff patch size:

1. Go to the Admin Area (**{admin}**) and select **Settings > General**.
1. Expand **Diff limits**.
1. Enter a value for **Maximum diff patch size**, measured in bytes.
1. Select **Save changes**.

WARNING:
This setting is experimental. An increased maximum increases resource
consumption of your instance. Keep this in mind when adjusting the maximum.

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