escrow build

An escrow build is a Microsoft internal term for a software build that has been set aside for final quality assurance before release. During the escrow period, also called bake time, the build is tested and stabilized while no new code changes are accepted. If issues are found, the build may be reset and a new escrow build created. This process ensures that only thoroughly validated code reaches customers. Recent discussions by Microsoft engineer Raymond Chen have clarified this workflow, explaining how escrow builds, bake time, and escrow resets form a repeatable release pipeline. The term is specific to Microsoft's development practices and is not a general industry standard.