Continuous Integration and Continuous Delivery (CI/CD)

Definition

CI/CD is a software engineering method. Continuous integration (CI) automates code integration from multiple contributors into a single software project. Continuous delivery (CD) automatically deploys all code changes to a testing or production environment after the build stage.

What is the difference between CI and CD?

Continuous Integration (CI) focuses on the automated integration of code changes from multiple developers into a single software project to ensure that new code merges smoothly and swiftly. It typically involves automated testing to validate these integrations. 

In contrast, Continuous Delivery (CD) extends beyond integration by automating the release of the verified code to repositories and production environments. CD ensures that the software can be reliably released at any time, enhancing the speed and safety of software deployment.

What is an example of continuous delivery?

An example of Continuous Delivery is the automatic deployment of a web application to a production environment after passing through stages like code integration, testing, and quality assurance. 

For instance, a company may use a CD pipeline that automatically updates its live e-commerce website with new features or bug fixes upon successful integration and testing of new code. This ensures minimal downtime and a seamless user experience.

What is an example of continuous integration?

An example of Continuous Integration is a scenario where a team of developers works on a mobile app. When a developer commits changes to the app’s codebase, an automated CI system triggers a build and runs a series of tests. These tests check if the new code integrates well with the existing code, ensuring compatibility and early detection of any integration issues or bugs.

Is CI/CD different from DevOps?

Yes, CI/CD and DevOps are related but distinct concepts. 

CI/CD refers to the specific practices of integrating and delivering code changes frequently and automatically. It’s a key component of the software development process, focusing on the technical aspects of coding and deployment. 

DevOps, on the other hand, is a broader philosophy that includes CI/CD. It integrates development (Dev) and operations (Ops) teams to promote a collaborative and holistic approach to software development and delivery. It emphasizes automation, efficiency, and continuous improvement across the entire software lifecycle.