How to Use OCI Images as the Source of Truth for Continuous Delivery

Using OCI Images as the Source of Truth for Continuous Delivery

Modern software development requires a reliable and efficient continuous delivery (CD) process. Open Container Initiative (OCI) images are emerging as a fundamental element in this workflow, providing consistency and security when deploying applications.

What Are OCI Images?

OCI images are standardised container images maintained under the Open Container Initiative, ensuring interoperability across different platforms and environments. Using them as an authoritative source in your CD pipeline means that deployments remain consistent, regardless of the target system.

Why Use OCI Images for CD?

By using OCI images as the single source of truth, development teams can ensure that the exact same artefact tested in staging is deployed to production, eliminating inconsistencies caused by different build environments. This approach enhances reproducibility, security, and traceability.

Integrating OCI Images into GitLab CI/CD

With GitLab CI/CD, teams can easily incorporate OCI images into their workflows. By storing application images in a container registry and referencing specific versions during deployment, teams maintain a clear and verifiable audit trail of changes. GitLab’s built-in security scanning also helps identify vulnerabilities within OCI images before they reach production.

Conclusion

Leveraging OCI images in continuous delivery pipelines simplifies deployment, improves security, and enhances traceability. If you need professional assistance in implementing an advanced GitLab CI/CD strategy for your organisation in the UK, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Croatia, Serbia, Slovenia, Macedonia, Israel, South Africa, or Paraguay, contact IDEA GitLab Solutions for expert consulting and licencing services.