Evolving the Node.js Release Schedule
The Node.js project is evolving its release schedule to adopt a more predictable and sustainable model. Version 24 will become the next LTS release, with the current LTS release schedule being revised to align with community and enterprise needs. The changes aim to balance innovation with stability.
Background
- Node.js is a widely-used JavaScript runtime (the environment that runs JavaScript code outside a web browser), essential for building server-side applications and command-line tools.
- The Node.js Release Schedule determines how often new versions of Node.js are released (e.g., major, minor, and patch updates), and how long each version receives support, bug fixes, and security patches (its "LTS" or Long-Term Support period).
- This announcement signals a change to that schedule — likely altering release cadence, support timelines, or version numbering — which directly affects developers, companies, and DevOps teams who rely on Node.js for production systems.
- Prior context: The current schedule has been in place for years, with even-numbered versions (e.g., 20.x, 22.x) designated as LTS releases supported for 30 months, and odd-numbered versions as shorter-lived "current" releases. This evolution responds to the fast-moving JavaScript ecosystem and community feedback.