How the Build and Release Differ From One Another, Explain the Difference.

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Build is defined as when the software is given to the testing team by the development team.

Release It is defined as when the software is handed over to the users by the tester and developer.

In software development, the terms “build” and “release” refer to distinct stages in the development and deployment process. Here are the key differences between a build and a release:

  1. Build:
    • Definition: A build is the process of compiling the source code, integrating various components, and creating executable files or libraries.
    • Scope: It focuses on the internal aspects of the software, such as code compilation, linking, and unit testing.
    • Purpose: The primary goal of a build is to produce a version of the software that is ready for testing, debugging, or further development.
  2. Release:
    • Definition: A release is a version of the software that is made available to end-users or customers.
    • Scope: It encompasses a broader set of activities beyond the build, including testing, documentation, packaging, and distribution.
    • Purpose: The main purpose of a release is to deliver a stable and well-tested version of the software to users. It may include additional features, bug fixes, and improvements compared to previous releases.
  3. Relationship:
    • A release may consist of one or more builds. Builds are created iteratively during the development process, and multiple builds may contribute to a single release.
    • While a build is an internal artifact used for testing and development, a release is the external version that is distributed to users.
  4. Timing:
    • Builds can be created frequently during development, even multiple times a day, to incorporate new code changes.
    • Releases are typically less frequent and occur at specific milestones, such as the completion of a development cycle or the implementation of significant features.

In summary, a build is an internal snapshot of the software created during development, while a release is an external version intended for distribution to end-users. The build is a step in the process of creating a release, which involves additional activities like testing, documentation, and packaging.