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Continuous Integration (CI) is an automated practice designed to catch and address bugs quicker than traditional methods by integrating code into a shared repository frequently, where it can be verified by an integration build. CI tools facilitate this process, helping development teams improve software quality, reduce the time to market, and minimize risks associated with software development. This methodology is particularly relevant in Agile development environments, where rapid iteration cycles are commonplace. By automating builds and tests, teams can detect issues early on and ensure that their codebase remains stable and functional at all times. Continuous Integration tools often integrate with other Software Configuration Management Tools, forming an integral part of the software development lifecycle within the broader categories of Software and Software Configuration Management.