Description: Build artifacts are files generated as a result of a build process in software development. These artifacts can include binaries, libraries, documentation, configuration files, and other elements necessary for the deployment and execution of an application. In the context of continuous integration tools like GitLab CI and Jenkins, artifacts are crucial as they enable developers and operations teams to manage and distribute software efficiently. The ability to store, version, and retrieve these artifacts facilitates collaboration among teams and ensures that the correct versions of software are used across different environments, from development to production. Additionally, build artifacts are essential for automating tests and deployments, as they allow CI/CD (Continuous Integration/Continuous Deployment) systems to access the necessary components for agile and reliable testing and releases.
History: The practice of generating build artifacts dates back to the early days of software development, where the need to compile and package code became evident. With the rise of continuous integration in the 1990s, tools to standardize the build process and artifact management began to emerge. The introduction of various CI/CD systems allowed developers to automate the creation and storage of artifacts efficiently. Over the years, the importance of artifacts has grown, especially with the adoption of agile methodologies and DevOps, where continuous software delivery has become essential.
Uses: Build artifacts are primarily used in the software development lifecycle to store specific versions of applications and their dependencies. They enable development and operations teams to access consistent versions of software across different environments, facilitating deployment and maintenance. Additionally, they are crucial for test automation, as they allow CI/CD systems to use specific versions of software for regression and validation testing. They are also used for software distribution, ensuring that end-users receive the correct and tested version of the application.
Examples: An example of a build artifact is a JAR file generated in a Java project, which contains the compiled code and necessary dependencies to run the application. Another example is Docker containers created during the build process, which encapsulate the application and its runtime environment. CI/CD tools also allow for the storage and management of artifacts, enabling their retrieval in later stages of the development lifecycle. These artifacts can be utilized in different build jobs or deployed in production environments.
