DevOps is a set of practices and principles that combines software development (Dev) and IT operations (Ops) to enable more efficient and reliable software delivery. It emphasizes collaboration, automation, and continuous improvement throughout the software development lifecycle. DevOps is important because it helps organizations deliver software faster, with higher quality, and more aligned with customer needs. By breaking down silos between development and operations teams, DevOps promotes faster feedback loops, better communication, and more efficient problem-solving.