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Among other things, Node.js 17 introduces OpenSSL3 support, performance improvements and efficient error handling.

Node.js allows developers to execute JavaScript code outside of a browser. Command-line tools and scripts for servers can be created to produce dynamic web content before a web page is sent to the recipient’s web browser. In doing so, web application development is grouped around a single programming language (JavaScript), eliminating the need for server- and client-side scripting languages.

Node.js v17

The new Node.js 17 offers support for OpenSSL 3, a software library for applications that secure communication between computer networks. The protocol provides a path for so-called ‘FIPS 140-2 compliances’. While FIPS support for Node.js is already available in Node.js distributions contained in Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL), general availability should improve future integrations of third-party modules and hardware.

Other functionality

Furthermore, Node.js 17 ships with an improved version 9.5 of the V8 Java Script Engine, performance tweaks and better error handling. According to the community, the new version provides a more effective basis for diagnostic activities.

Node.js 17 is available immediately. The previous version, Node.js 16, has moved to Long Term Support (LTS), meaning it will be supported for at least 18 more months, with the possible extension of one year.

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