# Continuous Integration (CI) Continuous Integration (CI) is a software development practice aimed at automating the process of merging code changes into the main repository. It helps streamline code integration and testing to ensure code quality and stability. ### Key Aspects of Continuous Integration: 1. **Automated Build**: - Code changes are automatically compiled or packaged into a single artifact (e.g., executable, package), allowing for immediate validation of the changes. 2. **Automated Testing**: - After building, automated tests are executed to verify functionality, catch regressions, and ensure code meets the expected outcomes. 3. **Reducing Integration Conflicts**: - Frequent merging of code into the main repository enables early detection and resolution of integration conflicts. 4. **Integration with Development Tools**: - CI systems are often integrated with version control, bug tracking, and deployment tools, facilitating a seamless development workflow. 5. **Improving Code Quality**: - Running tests and code quality checks frequently helps reduce bugs and improves overall software quality. ### Popular CI Tools: - **Jenkins** - **GitLab CI/CD** - **Travis CI** - **CircleCI** - **GitHub Actions** These tools automate build, testing, and delivery processes, simplifying software development and ensuring product stability. CI enables faster development cycles with higher code quality by automating critical stages of the software delivery pipeline.