Prepare the new version before routing traffic
Build and configure the release ahead of the cutover, then verify health and essential dependencies. Where the hosting platform supports multiple instances or gradual traffic shifting, use that capability to keep a working version available during startup.
Make schema changes compatible with both old and new application versions during the transition. Separate expand and contract steps so the old version can keep serving until the new one is stable.
Control the cutover and recovery
Choose a traffic switch or rollout strategy supported by your hosting environment, and monitor errors, latency, and readiness while traffic moves. Keep the prior release available until the new one passes application-level checks.
Define rollback conditions and confirm data compatibility before the release. Afterward, review actual interruption time and failed requests so the next deployment plan reflects observed behavior.