Is Node.Js 20 a Secured Version of Early Releases?

Exciting news for tech enthusiasts! The latest release of Node.js, version 20, brings with it a brand new experimental Permission Model designed to enhance security. 

Along with this major addition, Node.js 20 also introduces features such as synchronous import.meta.resolve, a stable test_runner module, updates to the V8 JavaScript engine, single executable apps, and more. 

For the next six months, Node.js 20 will be the “Current” release, giving organizations and individuals the opportunity to test and prototype its cutting-edge features. By October 23, Node.js 20 will be fully prepared for production deployments and will also enter long-term support (LTS). 

This is an excellent opportunity to discover the latest advancements in Node.js 20, so make sure you don’t miss it!

It is an exciting release that boasts new features, including the experimental Permission Model and updates to V8. This version is perfect for testing and evaluating how Node.js fits into your development environment. 

The contributors who have played a vital role in making Node.js a highly valuable tool utilized across both large and small production environments are acknowledged and deeply appreciated by the Node.js team and the OpenJS Foundation. With 94.6K Stars and 24.7K Forks on GitHub, Node.js owes its usefulness, quality, and security to the contributions of many.

According to Robin Ginn, Executive Director of the OpenJS Foundation, Node.js has made significant strides in security, testing, and portability over the past year, and Node.js 20 demonstrates this progress. 

If you’re already using Node.js, the latest version offers an excellent opportunity to explore new features before the LTS release. The Foundation extends a heartfelt thank you to open-source contributors from all over the world, as Node.js 20 is a prime example of how open source can make a difference.

The latest updates to catch in Node.js 20

Node.js 20 Permission Model

Node.js Permission Model restricts program access to specified resources like file system, child process, and worker thread via an experimental API triggered by –experimental-permission switch.

Custom ESM loader hooks nearing stable.

ES module lifecycle hooks by loaders (–experimental-loader=./foo.mjs) now run on a separate thread to prevent cross-contamination with app code.

Synchronous import.meta.resolve()

Method returns sync as per browser behavior. User loader resolve hooks can still be async/sync. import.meta.resolve always returns sync for app code.

Stable Test Runner

Node.js v20 features a stable test_runner module with components for creating and executing the following tests.

• describe, it/test and hooks to structure test files
• mocking
• watch mode
• node –test to run multiple test files simultaneously

V8 JavaScript engine updated to V8 11.

In this version, the Chromium 113 upgrade has been implemented on the V8 engine along with advanced features that have been added to the JavaScript API.

Node.js 20 key features

• Offers enhanced performance with faster speed and quicker startup times
• Improved security features with better TLS 1.3 compatibility and stronger cryptography
• Better TypeScript support for easier use of the language in Node.js applications
• New debugging experience for easier troubleshooting
• Enhanced error handling for easier fault management

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