Node.js is an open-source server environment that allows to run JavaScript on the server. It is one of the leading development technologies that allow the development of highly appealing web applications. It gradually got updated with time and made its place in the development world. Node has been released in several versions, and each new release brings new features and improvements that benefit developers.

The latest version of Node js is Node js 21 which has been released with many new features or improvements. This is an important release of Node js which is committed to fulfilling the needs of security or web development of the platform. In this blog, we will learn what’s new in the latest version of Node.js 21.

Node js versions

There have been more than 15 versions of Node js released which are given below:

0.1.0
0.2.0 – 0.4.0
0.6.0
0.8.0
0.10.0
0.12.0
4.0.0
6.0.0
8.0.0
10.0.0
12.0.0
14.0.0
16.20.0
18.20.2
20.13.1
21.7.3
22.2.0

New Features in the latest version of Node.js 21

New Features in the latest version of Node.js 21

With the new version of Node js, it has become more stable, useful, and compatible.

Upgraded V8 JavaScript Engine

Node.js 21 comes with the upgraded V8 Javascript engine, the part of Chromium 118. This new update helped in improving performance optimizations, JavaScript features, language features, memory management, stability, bug fixes, and stability improvements.

Diagnostic Report Enhancements

Node js 21 features enhancements to Diagnostic Reports that give developers detailed insights into the performance and condition of Node.js applications. This latest version comes with improvements in report generation, readability, and compatibility with third-party tools. This allows developers to better diagnose and troubleshoot performance.

ES Modules Support

Node.js 21 brings specific improvements to ECMAScript Module support ( ES Modules Support) offering better encapsulation, enhanced code organization, and compatibility with modern JavaScript tooling which makes it a smart choice for developers. It enables programmers to utilize ES modules in Node js software without any additional tools.

Experimental Flag for Module Defaults

This new version has a feature of the experimental flag that enables developers to turn over the default module system. It offers more flexibility to manage CommonJS and ECMAScript modules. It can handle multiple types of JavaScript files efficiently.

Stable Fetch API and WebStreams

Node.js 21 has set an important place with the stabilization of the Fetch API and WebStreams. This means that developers can confidently use these features in production environments. It offers a modern and promise-based approach to handle data streams more efficiently.

Built-in WebSocket Client

It introduces a built-in WebSocket client which is enabled through the --experimental-websocket flag. It makes development easy by improving code structure and readability. It allows a seamless WebSocket integration process.

Read Also: Shopify App Development with Node Js (The Beginner's Guide)

Improved Test Runner

This new version of Node.js comes with an improved test runner that allows users to run complete tests on your application to check any issues and regressions. It makes tests more integrated and streamlined.

Address Breaking Changes

By updating the codebase, dependencies, and configuration, the breaking changes or deprecations are identified during testing. It can be addressed by reading the notes for Node.js 21, updating dependencies, and others.

Experimental Async Local Storage

Node.js 21 introduces a new experimental feature called Async Local Storage, making it easier for developers to manage contextual data in asynchronous operations, leading to improved debugging and monitoring.

NPM 10.2 Integration

Node.js 21 can smoothly integrate with npm 10.2. It provides access to developers for the latest features and bug fixes within the package management system.

Conclusion

The new version of Node.js i.e. Node.js 21 comes with plenty of new features, improvements, and scalability that allow developers to build quick and reliable applications. Its' all updates are best and useful to take your development process to new heights. To leverage this version it is essential to understand its versioning system and lifecycle. This version empowers developers by providing tools and capabilities to handle complex challenges and deliver exceptional results to users.

What’s New in the latest version of Node.js 21?

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