Deno is an open-source JavaScript runtime. It has been regarded as an ideal alternative to Node.js since its initial release in 2018. It addresses several shortcomings of Node.js, especially in module management and security.
Deno 2 has come several steps forward. Released on October 9, 2024, this new version promises numerous improvements.
Let us explore what advancements Deno 2 has to offer.
Key Features of Deno 2
Deno 2 is a secure runtime for JavaScript and TypeScript. It uses the V8 engine that also powers Chrome.
Some primary improvements you can notice in this version include:
API Enhancements
Deno 2 is more stable now. Previously, many of its APIs underwent frequent changes as the platform was still evolving.
The core team behind Deno 2 put significant effort into stabilizing APIs. Due to this stability, developers can now develop production-ready applications confidently.
The team has added several new web APIs in Deno 2. You get support for WebSocket, URL, Fetch, and more.
These new APIs provide seamless integration for file handling, cryptography, and HTTP requests.
Compatibility with Node & NPM
Deno 2 is compatible with NPM packages and Node modules. This new version bridges the gap between Deno and the JavaScript ecosystem.
Developers can import and use existing Node.js libraries without any trouble.
The platform also manages private NPM registries like Node and npm.
You need a .npmrc file. Deno will detect it automatically and let you pull private packages without any extra setup.
Additionally, Deno 2 supports the package.json format. Developers can now work with npm scripts without significant rewrites.
Better Native TypeScript Support
Although Deno 1 had built-in support for TypeScript, its compilation was complicated. The compilation process is more streamlined in this new version.
In Deno 2, TypeScript is way faster. It also improves type-checking performance.
These improvements naturally boost the developer experience.
New JavaScript Registry
Deno 2 introduces a new JavaScript registry. It acts as a centralized repository for modules and packages.
The JavaScript registry has a collection of premium modules, ensuring developers have access to secure and reliable code.
The JavaScript registry in Deno 2 has better search capabilities. It helps developers to find and integrate 3rd party libraries into their projects.
The registry also enables developers to load modules via URLs. They do not need to worry about versioning issues and project bloat anymore.
Moreover, the JavaScript registry provides detailed documentation for additional support.
Long Term Support
Another standout feature of Deno 2 is its Long Term Support (LTS). This means that Deno 2 will receive updates and patches over an extended period.
This reliability lets developers use Deno 2 for large-scale applications.
Security
Deno 2 operates within a highly secured sandboxed environment. It prevents unauthorized access to system resources, networks, and files.
If users have to grant permissions, they can use flags such as –allow-read, –allow-write, or –allow-net.
The runtime also comes with various auditing tools. Developers can use them to identify and prevent security risks in their web codes.
Deno 2 also enforces strict security measures, such as mandatory code reviews and vulnerability checking for published modules.
Workspaces & Monorepos
Deno 2 offers support for Workspaces and Monorepos. Therefore, users can now manage multiple projects within a single repository.
They can interconnect projects by sharing dependencies and configurations across all sub-projects. It is particularly beneficial when working on large-scale applications. It will improve your workflow by managing complex codebases.
Improved Performance
Deno 2 is faster than its predecessor, thanks to the enhanced performance of the underlying V8 engine.
Since the Deno 2 core team has reduced cold start times for Deno scripts, Deno-based applications load quickly now.
Developers can experience a noticeable improvement in Deno’s performance due to its quick execution time and low memory consumption.
Whether making API requests or rendering on the server, Deno provides better performance.
Conclusion
Overall, we can say that this new version of Deno has a lot to offer. Deno 2 is a substantial advancement in the JavaScript runtime environment. It has better API stability, performance, and security.
Deno 2 is a modern toolchain for the advanced JavaScript ecosystem. Whether you are a seasoned JavaScript developer or just a beginner, it will meet your needs.
