Node.js 24 is Here: Key Enhancements for Software Developers

On May 6, 2025, the new version of Node.js—Node.js 24—was officially released. This update strengthens its position as one of the most powerful JavaScript runtimes in the ecosystem. It introduces major improvements in performance, security, and developer experience, aligning with the latest language specifications and reinforcing its integration in enterprise environments.

At Unimedia Technology, we break down the most relevant updates and their impact on modern application development.

Experimental Support for TypeScript

Node.js 24 continues to move forward in its support for TypeScript. While still considered experimental, it introduces new capabilities that simplify usage:

• --rewriteRelativeImportExtensions: Allows .ts files to be imported without explicit extensions, improving interoperability.

• --erasableSyntaxOnly: Ensures only the TypeScript syntax supported by Node.js is used, avoiding runtime errors.

These additions enable a smoother adoption of TypeScript without relying on external tools, bridging the gap between both ecosystems.

Powered by V8 13.6: Better Performance and Language Features

The upgrade to V8 version 13.6 unlocks new JavaScript capabilities that were previously browser-only or part of emerging proposals:

• RegExp.escape: Makes it easier and safer to work with regular expressions, eliminating the need for custom escape functions.

• Float16Array: A performant data type for high-efficiency operations, especially in graphics and machine learning.

• Atomics.pause: Adds synchronization tools for multi-threaded tasks in environments like Workers.

• WebAssembly Memory64: Adds 64-bit memory support to WebAssembly, enabling more advanced workloads.

• await using: Automatically manages resource cleanup (files, sockets), helping prevent memory/resource leaks.

• Error.isError: A small but useful utility to check whether a value is a proper Error object.

Reinforced Security: Evolving the Permission Model

One of the most security-oriented features is the permission model, now activated with the --permission flag (formerly --experimental-permission). This feature allows fine-grained control over what a Node.js application can access—such as file system, network, or process spawning.

It’s particularly useful for CLI tools, sandboxed applications, and environments with strict security requirements.

URLPattern Is Now Global

The URLPattern API—used to define and match route patterns—is now global in Node.js 24. This removes the need to explicitly import it and simplifies route matching logic.

This change makes route definitions more readable and secure, with less reliance on complex regular expressions.

Smarter, Simpler Testing

Node.js 24 improves the built-in test runner by implicitly waiting for subtests—even without using await.

Before:

Now:

This small but significant change improves test reliability and reduces boilerplate, without altering test logic.

Updated HTTP Client: Undici 7.0.0

This release includes the latest version of Undici, the native HTTP client for Node.js. It brings enhanced standards compliance, better performance, and a smoother experience with fetch().

A key improvement for high-traffic APIs and microservices.

npm 11: Faster, Safer, More Predictable

Bundled with Node.js 24 is npm v11, which introduces:

• Faster installs

• Stronger security validations

• Updates to npm init and removal of the npm hook command

• Stricter application of --ignore-scripts across all lifecycle events

These enhancements lead to a more predictable and efficient package management experience—ideal for automated workflows and CI/CD pipelines.

Cleaning Up the Ecosystem: Farewell to Legacy APIs

Several outdated APIs have been deprecated or removed:

• url.parse() → Replace with the modern URL API.

• SlowBuffer, tls.createSecurePair: no longer supported.

• Legacy constants like fs.F_OK are being phased out in favor of updated alternatives.

It’s highly recommended to review and update legacy codebases and dependencies to avoid compatibility issues.

What to Try Right Now

• Explore RegExp.escape and the new await using syntax to improve clarity and safe resource handling in your code.

• Use URLPattern for cleaner, more maintainable route matching.

• Adopt the new test runner to simplify test writing and avoid common mistakes.

• Evaluate the permission model if your app requires fine-grained resource access control.

• Audit your dependencies to ensure compatibility with current APIs.

A Firm Step Toward the Future: LTS

Node.js 24 is scheduled to enter Long-Term Support (LTS) in October 2025, with active support through April 2028. Now is the ideal time to evaluate and plan your migration strategy.

Conclusion

Node.js 24 represents a key evolution in the server-side JavaScript ecosystem. With enhanced performance, modern APIs, improved security, and a smoother developer experience, this version is a strong step toward the future of backend development.

At Unimedia Technology, we pride ourselves on staying at the forefront of technology and development standards. Early adoption of these innovations enables us to continue building robust, scalable solutions that follow industry best practices.

We remain committed to technical excellence and continuous innovation in every software project we deliver.