Github Actions Composite Actions Vs. Reusable Workflows

When should you reach for a composite action vs a reusable workflow?

They’re similar because a composite action now lets you call other actions within it. Reusable workflows are also a combination of many steps with their actions.

Actions are executed on the same runner on which its job is running. You should reach for an action if you need to pass data between job steps.

One example is if you need to set up a VPN connection. You don’t want this in a workflow because the entire workflow will execute on its runner and terminate after it’s done. But if you implement it as an action, you can use it in your workflows to establish your VPN connection for future steps.