What is Continuous Integration?

Testing your code automatically when you commit to version control

Continuous Integration (CI) is a development practice where developers regularly merge their code changes into a shared repository, often multiple times a day. Each integration triggers an automated build and test process, helping teams detect issues early and maintain software quality.

Core Concepts

  1. Version Control Integration All source code is managed in a shared version control system (e.g., Git), ensuring visibility and easy collaboration.

  2. Automated Builds  Every commit automatically triggers a build process to compile, package, and validate the code.

  3. Automated Testing Tests (unit, integration, etc.) run automatically to verify that new changes don’t break existing functionality.

  4. Continuous Feedback Developers receive immediate feedback on build and test results, allowing quick fixes for errors.

  5. Frequent Commits      Developers commit small, frequent updates to reduce merge conflicts and simplify troubleshooting.

  6. CI Tools Tools like Jenkins, GitHub Actions, or GitLab CI/CD manage and orchestrate builds, tests, and notifications.

In essence: Continuous Integration ensures that software changes are constantly verified, improving code quality and accelerating delivery.