Java 21 Upgrade

Description

dotCMS has upgraded its runtime platform from Java 11 to Java 21, adopting the latest long-term support (LTS) release of the Java ecosystem. This move brings the platform in line with modern Java standards, delivering meaningful improvements in security, performance, and long-term maintainability across the entire dotCMS stack.

By running on Java 21, dotCMS benefits from years of advancements in garbage collection, cryptography, and core APIs—resulting in more efficient memory usage, faster and more predictable performance, and a stronger security posture. It also provides a modern foundation for teams building custom extensions and integrations on top of dotCMS.

Benefits

For DevOps & Platform Teams

• Strengthen security with up-to-date Java security patches, cryptographic algorithms, and modern TLS support.

• Improve runtime efficiency with advanced garbage collection, reducing pause times and improving overall stability.

• Align infrastructure with a current LTS release for longer support windows and easier compliance management.

For Developers

• Build custom plugins and integrations using modern Java APIs and language features.

• Reduce technical debt by targeting a contemporary Java runtime rather than legacy versions.

• Benefit from improved tooling and performance characteristics during development and runtime.

Use Cases

Security & Compliance
Organizations with strict security and regulatory requirements gain confidence from running dotCMS on the latest Java LTS with modern cryptographic standards.

High-Traffic Performance
Large or high-traffic dotCMS deployments see improved response times and more efficient memory management thanks to modern garbage collection improvements.

Modern Custom Development
Development teams creating custom dotCMS plugins and integrations can take advantage of newer Java language features and APIs to build cleaner, more performant solutions.

Resources

• Upgrading: Important Changes Documentation

• Release Support Lifecycle