Optimize pipeline concurrency for performance and cost

Pipeline concurrency in Azure DevOps enables you to run multiple jobs at the same time, accelerating your build and release workflows while controlling spending on compute resources. This topic is crucial for anyone preparing for the AZ-400 certification exam and aiming to deliver software faster without exceeding budget.

What Is Pipeline Concurrency?

Concurrency refers to executing several pipeline jobs in parallel. By splitting work into independent jobs, you can leverage multiple agents simultaneously and finish your pipeline in a fraction of the time.

Note

Parallel jobs consume more agents, so ensure your agent pool has enough capacity before increasing concurrency.

The image illustrates the concept of optimizing pipeline concurrency by showing multiple jobs with tasks executed simultaneously from start to end.

Key Benefits of Optimized Concurrency

Benefit	Description
Improved Performance	Parallel execution reduces overall pipeline runtime.
Cost Efficiency	Better utilization of agents lowers idle time and infrastructure costs.

Finding the right balance between speed and expense ensures you get rapid feedback without overspending.

1. Parallel Jobs

Azure Pipelines allows you to define multiple jobs within a single pipeline. When you have enough agents available, these jobs run at the same time, shortening feedback loops and speeding up delivery.

The image explains pipeline concurrency in Azure Pipelines, focusing on parallel jobs that can run simultaneously if there are enough available agents.

Warning

If your organization shares a limited number of parallel jobs, monitor usage in Project settings > Pipelines > Parallel jobs to avoid queuing delays.

2. Agent Pools

Agents are the workers that execute your pipeline jobs. You group them into pools so pipelines can pick an available machine. Right-sizing your agent pool—choosing the right number and types of agents—ensures you maintain the concurrency level you need without wasting resources.

The image is a diagram titled "Pipeline Concurrency in Azure Pipelines – Key Aspects," focusing on "Agent Pools" with three agents listed: Agent 1, Agent 2, and Agent 3.

References

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