Continuous integration runs versioned checks such as formatting, linting, compilation, tests, security analysis, and packaging when changes are proposed or added to a repository. The pipeline provides a common verification environment rather than relying on one developer's local setup.
CI gives coding agents and reviewers objective feedback, but the pipeline must remain trustworthy. Required checks should fail visibly, warnings should be treated as defects, credentials should be protected, and shortcuts must not manipulate state merely to simulate success.
ELI5
Continuous integration automatically checks software changes in a shared pipeline. It can build the project, run tests, inspect formatting, and report problems before the change is merged or released.
For example, when a developer or coding agent changes a login function, the pipeline can immediately run security and behavior tests. A failed check stays visible so the team does not mistake an unverified change for completed work.
