Node.js 21 release!

The release of Node.js 21 has arrived, marking a significant step in the evolution of this popular JavaScript runtime. Node.js 21 has taken the mantle from Node.js 20 as our current release line, while Node.js 20 has been elevated to long-term support (LTS) status.

Distinguishing the two releases, Node.js 21 is ideal for conducting early feature testing within your specific environment. In contrast, Node.js 20 LTS is designed for robust production deployments. Node.js 21 will maintain its status as the 'Current' release for the next six months, remaining in this position until April 2024. To delve into further details regarding our Node.js release schedule, please refer to our comprehensive documentation.

Exciting highlights in Node.js 21 encompass updates to the V8 JavaScript engine, which has been advanced to version 11.8. Additionally, it features the integration of stable WebStreams, the introduction of a new experimental flag for modifying module defaults (–experimental-default-type), and numerous enhancements to our test runner, among other notable updates.

Rafael Gonzaga, a distinguished member of the Node.js Technical Steering Committee (TSC), emphasizes the significance of Node.js 21 for early adopters: "If you’re keen on gaining access to compelling new features in their nascent stages, Node.js 21 serves as an excellent platform for experimentation. Our release schedule is meticulously designed to accommodate this aspect. For those already engaged in active deployment or preparing for it, Node.js 20 and 18 LTS are the versions of choice."

Gonzaga extends his gratitude to the open-source community for their invaluable contributions to the Node.js ecosystem and acknowledges the pivotal role played by organizations like OpenSSF and Project Alpha Omega in enhancing Node.js security.

Node.js continues to experience a surge in demand among developers, particularly as the necessity for reliable and scalable web applications grows. According to Micha?l Zasso, a member of the Node.js TSC, Node.js 21 empowers developers to assess the current state of Node.js features directly. He highlights the availability of a stable test runner, a feature introduced in Node.js 20, eliminating the need for third-party modules and facilitating the creation of test scripts. Node.js 21 further enhances the test runner, making it a compelling option for developers to explore.

Key Updates in Node.js 21:

1. V8 JavaScript Engine: Node.js 21 now features an updated V8 JavaScript engine, version 11.8, ensuring improved performance and compatibility.

2. Stable WebStreams: Stable WebStreams have been integrated, enabling the seamless processing of data in smaller increments, which is particularly beneficial for browser applications.

3. Experimental Module Defaults: The introduction of an experimental flag (–experimental-default-type) provides users with the ability to easily switch between CommonJS and ECMAScript modules, enhancing flexibility in module management.

4. Test Runner Enhancements: Node.js 21 introduces numerous updates to the test runner, facilitating functional testing and result exportation.

Download Node.js 21 here and get started testing right away! More details can be found in the Node.js blog.