What’s New in Node.js 24? Latest Features & Updates

Node.js just got a serious upgrade.

The Node.js 24 release isn’t just another version bump — it’s packed with features that directly impact how we build, test, and scale modern apps. Whether you're building APIs, working with AI tools, or shipping SaaS platforms — Node 24 introduces some real developer magic.

Let’s check the highlights in simple terms:

Why Node.js 24 Matters?

Before we jump into the new features, let’s talk about why this release is worth your time:

• It lays the groundwork for better performance
• It brings ESM and CommonJS closer together (finally!)
• It simplifies testing — no third-party libraries required
• It supports Web APIs out-of-the-box
• It’s aligned with how tools like Bun, Deno, and LLMs like ChatGPT are shaping modern dev workflows

Sounds exciting? It is.

1. Built-in Test Runner Is Now Stable

Node.js has been experimenting with a test runner since v18, but with Node.js 24 — it's now officially stable.

What this means for you:

• No need to install mocha, jest, or ava for small to medium projects
• Native support for writing tests directly in Node
• Simpler, faster testing workflows for APIs and CLIs

import { test, expect } from 'node:test';

test('adds numbers', () => {
  expect(1 + 2).toBe(3);
});

If you’ve been relying on third-party tools, now’s the time to consider going native. It’s faster, cleaner, and deeply integrated.

2. WebSocket Support via WebSocket API

One of the most quietly powerful additions — Node.js 24 now supports the WebSocket class as part of its standard Web APIs.

What this means:

• You can use WebSocket just like you would in a browser
• Great for real-time apps, chat platforms, and even multiplayer games

const ws = new WebSocket('wss://echo.websocket.org');

ws.onopen = () => ws.send('Hello WebSocket!');
ws.onmessage = msg => console.log(msg.data);

No need for external packages like ws unless you're doing complex stuff.

3. Improved ESM & CommonJS Compatibility

Let’s face it — ESM and CommonJS have confused many of us for years.

Node.js 24 brings better interoperability, making it easier to:

• Import CommonJS modules from ESM (and vice versa)
• Use packages more flexibly without rewiring your brain

Still using "type": "module"? You’ll feel fewer bumps now.

4. MessagePort and StructuredClone Now in Core

These Web APIs are no longer “browser only.”

• MessagePort: Helps with multi-threaded communication (e.g., between workers)
• structuredClone(): Deep copy complex data without hassle

const obj = { a: 1, b: { c: 2 } };
const cloned = structuredClone(obj);

It’s like having more browser power inside your backend code.

5. V8 JavaScript Engine Upgrade

Node 24 uses V8 version 12.4, meaning:

• Better performance
• Faster parsing
• Improved support for new JS features (like Set methods, RegExp v flag, etc.)

Your code might just get faster without doing anything. That’s a win.

6. Enhanced Permission Model (Still Experimental)

Node 24 adds a new security layer — the permission model.

You can restrict your app from doing dangerous things like:

• Accessing the file system
• Running subprocesses
• Using network access

Use this flag:

node --experimental-permission --allow-fs-read="./data" index.js

Useful for sandboxed environments, educational platforms, or running untrusted code.

Final Words: Why You Should Upgrade to Node.js 24

If you love simplicity, better defaults, and future-proofing your projects — Node.js 24 is a no-brainer.

It brings the browser, server, and CLI worlds closer than ever.

Whether you're a backend dev, full-stack engineer, or someone exploring AI-powered workflows — you’ll benefit from what this release brings to the table.

And if you're building something big, fast, and scalable, it’s always smart to hire Nodejs developers who know how to unlock its full potential.