Attention, Nodejs community! Node.js 21 version has just been released, and it has piqued the interest of developers all over the world to give it a shot. Node.js's latest version is jam-packed with exciting features and updates, promising improved performance and functionality for developers. However, each time a new release comes out, a question comes up: Is it worth updating to the latest version?
In this blog post, We'll explore whether these enhancements justify the effort and potential challenges of updating your Node.js version. So, whether you're a pro Node.js developer from a top nodejs development company or new to the world of server-side JavaScript, this blog will help you make an informed decision.
About Nodejs V21:
The much-awaited announcement for the Node community and team is over with the release of Node js 21- the latest version of Node js. Node.js 21 was released on October 17, 2023.
It is the most latest version of Node.js, a well-known open-source JavaScript runtime based on Chrome's V8 JavaScript engine. Nodejs allows developers to execute JavaScript code on the server side, allowing them to create robust & reliable web applications. Despite this, the Nodejs features of V21 have brought a lot to the table, fixing potential bugs. The latest version of Node.js is faster and more secure than its predecessor.
Furthermore, by the end of the month, Node.js 20 will be eligible for long-term support (LTS), and Node.js 21 will take its place as the "Current" release line. According to the release schedule, as long as the Node community follows the event guidelines, this "Current" version of Node.js 21 will last for the next six months, or until April 2024. To learn more about nodejs release policy - click here!
Why Nodejs V21 Stands Out from Nodejs V20?
Before diving into the depth of Node.js 21 features, we'd like to let you know what is new in Node.js 21 through a table comparison of nodejs 20 vs nodejs 21. Have a look!
A Quick Comparison of Nodejs 20 VS Nodejs 21
| Aspect | Node.js Version 20 | Node.js Version 21 |
|---|---|---|
| Release Date | 18 April 2023 | 17 October 2023 |
| V8 engine | V8 11.3 | V8 11.8 |
| WebStreams | Not supported | Supported |
| ESM modules | Not supported by default | Supported by default |
| Test runner | Not included | Included |
| Performance | Effective and Scalable | 2x Powerful |
A Spotlight on Nodejs V21 Main Updates
Stable Fetch & Web Stream Model:
Node.js 21 supports fetch and WebStreams as stable modules, meaning that they are no longer experimental or behind a flag. This means that you can use them in your Node.js applications without any additional configuration or installation.
- Better modern application compatibility.
- Easy to build & optimize.
- Handles network & server errors hassle-free.
Prompt: node:fetch module:
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The New Experimental Web Socket:
The new experimental websocket flag enables support for a browser-compatible implementation of WebSocket. This nodejs feature allows developers to write websocket code that is suitable for both browsers and nodejs.
- Efficient real-time communication.
- Seamless code-sharing between different environments.
- Manages high-concurrency scenarios.
Prompt: enable the - experimental-websocket flag when running nodejs.
Access to V8 11.8
Node js V21 also features the second generation of the V8 JavaScript Engine - V8 11.8. This updated version, which is a component of Chromium 118, adds new language features like Array grouping, WebAssembly, and ArrayBufferprototype.transfer along with performance improvements.
- High performance & maintainability
- Error tracking and debugging with ease
- Simple element grouping
Supportive Glob Expression
Node.js comes with a built-in feature called the test runner that allows you to run JavaScript tests on Node.js applications. However, tests are now supported with glob expressions when using the --test parameter, allowing you to run tests across multiple directories using powerful glob patterns.
- Accurate test reporting
- Smoother test execution
- Stronger nodejs security
Should I Update to Nodejs 21?
Overall, Node v20 is a good choice for most developers who are looking for a stable and high-performance tech stack for nodejs web app development. However, here are some of the “if” cases to know whether you should update or not.
- If you need to use the latest features or need better compatibility during nodejs development, you will need to upgrade to Node.js v21.
- If you’re struggling to build complexive web applications, Node.js 21 is a great way to play around and see what’s coming.
- If you’re already in active deployment or if you are planning for it, Node.js 20 and 18 LTS are for you.
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How to Install the Latest Version of Nodejs?
To install the latest version of Node.js, follow these steps:
- Visit the Node.js website https://nodejs.org/en/download/.
- Download the suitable installation package for your system.
- After downloading, run the installation package and follow the on-screen instructions to install Node.js.
- Once the mission is accomplished, check the installed version in your terminal or command prompt by running the command node -v.
Note - Nodejs development company highly recommends using the latest version or LTS version.
Glimpse of Upcoming Nodejs Version - Nodejs 22
Yes! The upcoming Node.js version 22 is still under development, but there are some notable changes that are expected to be included in the release. However, the release date of nodejs 22 has not been officially announced yet but it is expected to be released in April 2024. The following are some notable changes that can be seen in nodejs 22.
- An all-new event loop implementation
- Application support for WebAssembly (WASI)
- Latest APIs & upgraded JavaScript standardse
- Performance enhancements
- Updated nodejs security features
Wrap Up:
It's clear that the Node js 21 release involves more than just a version upgrade. It endorses the forward-thinking Node js community and impresses everyone by championing environmental issues for betterment. Thus, JavaScript development now has a more promising future, and Node js 21 is leading the way in modernizing Node js apps.
If you want to update to the superior version of Node Js or improve the functionality of your application from scratch, get connected with Sufalam Technologies, the leading app development company, and our team will do its best to assist you.
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