Deployment in software development refers to the process of releasing a software application or system into a production environment where it is made available for use by end-users. Deployment involves transferring the developed software from a development or testing environment to a live production environment, where it can be accessed, utilized, and maintained by users.
Deployment may also mean the release of software application in a test or staging environments, which always precedes production deployment. Therefore deployment is a critical phase in the software development lifecycle, marking the transition of software from development to the subsequent phases till it gets into production. A well-planned and executed deployment process ensures that software releases are delivered efficiently, reliably, and securely, meeting the needs of end-users and stakeholders while minimizing disruptions to business operations.