An Integrated Development Environment (IDE) is a software application that provides comprehensive facilities to computer programmers for software development. It typically includes a code editor, build automation tools, and a debugger, all integrated into a single interface, making it easier for developers to write, test, and debug their code.
IDEs enhance productivity by offering features like syntax highlighting, code completion, and version control integration. Popular examples of IDEs include Visual Studio, Eclipse, and IntelliJ IDEA, which cater to various programming languages and frameworks, streamlining the development process and improving code quality.