What is a codeline in the context of software development?

In software development, a codeline refers to a sequence of versions of source code, tracking the changes made over time. This concept is essential for version control systems, where developers manage and maintain different iterations of their software. Each codeline can represent a distinct branch of development, allowing teams to work on features or fixes independently while keeping a historical record of modifications in the source code. This facilitates collaboration among programmers and enables them to revert to previous versions if necessary, ensuring the integrity and evolution of the software project.

Understanding codelines is crucial for effective software engineering practices, as they help manage code complexity and foster a structured approach to development and release cycles.