Git Gopher

Patterns

Git Hotfix Branch

Hotfix Branch Workflow

Git hotfix branch addresses urgent production fixes.

What is a Git Hotfix Branch?

A Git hotfix branch is a temporary branch created to address urgent issues in a production environment. Unlike regular feature or release branches, a hotfix branch is used to rapidly fix critical bugs without waiting for the normal release cycle. This ensures that the production environment remains stable and operational.

Creating a Hotfix Branch

To create a hotfix branch, you typically branch off from the main or master branch, where your production code resides. This allows you to apply fixes directly to the production-ready code. Once the fix is complete, the hotfix branch is merged back into the main branch and, if applicable, into the development branch to keep all branches updated.

Implementing the Fix

With your hotfix branch created, you can now implement the necessary changes to resolve the production issue. Once you have committed the fix, it is crucial to test thoroughly to ensure the problem is resolved without introducing new bugs.

Merging the Hotfix Branch

After confirming that the hotfix works correctly, the next step is to merge the changes back into the main branch. It is also a best practice to merge these changes into the development branch to ensure the fix is included in future releases.

Deleting the Hotfix Branch

Once the hotfix branch has been successfully merged into both the main and development branches, and after ensuring the changes are live in production, you can safely delete the hotfix branch to keep your repository clean.

Conclusion

Git hotfix branches are an essential tool for quickly addressing critical issues in production, ensuring minimal downtime and maintaining a stable environment. By following the steps outlined above, you can efficiently manage urgent fixes and keep your repository in sync.

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