Apache Geode: A Significant Leap Forward
Apache Geode, an in-memory data grid, is transforming how developers approach data-intensive applications by providing real-time and consistent access at an extensive scale. This tool enables the construction of high-performance and low-latency systems with a strong emphasis on consistency, making it an indispensable asset in the tech ecosystem.
Initially developed by VMware, Apache Geode transitioned to being a top-level project under the Apache Software Foundation in 2015. Since then, it has evolved significantly, thanks to the contributions from an active open source community dedicated to enhancing its reliability, scalability, and performance.
What’s New in Apache Geode?
The Apache Geode project is currently undergoing a major transformation following the recent release of version 1.15.2, marking its first update in nearly three years. This new version is the result of an ambitious modernization effort, most notably the migration to Jakarta EE 10. This transition represents the most substantial architectural shift in Geode’s history, ensuring the project remains modern, secure, and sustainable for years to come.
Understanding the Jakarta EE 10 Migration
The migration to Jakarta EE 10 involves a critical change in the underlying architecture of Apache Geode. Oracle’s transfer of Java EE to the Eclipse Foundation resulted in the change of the namespace from javax. to jakarta., breaking binary compatibility across the Java ecosystem. To stay current and compatible with modern servers, frameworks, and libraries, projects like Geode needed to overhaul their entire codebase.
For Apache Geode, this migration was not merely a matter of updating dependencies but a comprehensive transformation. Key upgrades included:
- Transition from Java EE 8 to Jakarta EE 10
- Upgrade from Spring Framework 5.3 to 6.1
- Spring Boot update from 2.6 to 3.3
- Transition from Spring Security 5.6 to 6.3
- Moving from Jetty 9.4 to 12.0
- Apache HttpComponents upgrade from 4.5 to 5.3
A Deep Dive into Technical Updates
Security and Framework Modernization
With the introduction of a lambda-based security model in Spring 6, Apache Geode’s configuration has been rewritten using the new SecurityFilterChain approach. This makes the configuration more maintainable and keeps it aligned with the latest best practices.
Command-Line Enhancements
The Geode gfsh tool has been rebuilt using Spring Shell 3.x, which significantly improves usability, command completion, and validation for developers, streamlining their workflow.
Web and HTTP Layer Upgrades
The adoption of Jetty 12 and Apache HttpComponents 5.x has improved SSL/TLS handling, request performance, and compliance with modern web standards, enhancing the overall security and efficiency of the system.
Compatibility with Tomcat 10+
With Tomcat now relying on jakarta.servlet, Apache Geode introduced a new module to support Tomcat 10 and above, offering a clear migration path for users and ensuring continued compatibility with modern environments.
Community Insights from the Migration Process
The migration process was not just a technical challenge but also a testament to the power of community collaboration. Key lessons learned include:
- Sequential upgrades of dependencies respecting the dependency graph
- Early modernization of test infrastructure to prevent regressions
- Focusing on module-by-module migration to maintain clarity
- Transparent communication and thorough documentation
The migration offered opportunities to address technical debt, improve null safety, refactor outdated code, and enhance overall security, particularly in areas like CSRF protection and path traversal vulnerabilities.
The Future of Apache Geode
With the migration to Jakarta EE 10 complete, Apache Geode is now poised for the release of Apache Geode 2.0. This upcoming version promises:
- Improved performance and scalability
- Continuous security updates
- Cleaner and more maintainable code
- Stronger alignment with the Java ecosystem
- Easier onboarding for new contributors
Apache Geode is no longer constrained by outdated dependencies and is ready to support the next generation of distributed systems.
How to Get Involved
The Apache Geode community is open to contributions of all kinds, not just code. Anyone interested in improving documentation, testing, design, or community engagement is encouraged to get involved. The community values collaboration and transparency and welcomes new members who share these values.
Acknowledgments and Expert Insights
Special thanks are due to Sai Boorlagadda, Leon Finker, and Arnout Engelen for their technical leadership and contributions to this modernization effort. This project exemplifies the spirit of The Apache Way, characterized by collaboration, transparency, and a commitment to quality.
For those seeking expert insights, Jinwoo Hwang, a member of the Apache Geode project management committee and Principal Software Developer in the Research and Development group at SAS Institute Inc., offers valuable perspectives on the project’s development and future direction.
About the Apache Software Foundation
The Apache Software Foundation (ASF) is home to nearly 9,000 committers who contribute to over 320 active projects, including Apache Airflow, Apache Camel, Apache Flink, Apache HTTP Server, Apache Kafka, and Apache Superset. Supported by volunteers, developers, stewards, and more than 75 sponsors, ASF projects create open-source software that is used globally, fulfilling its mission of providing software for the public good.
Through community events, collaborations, code production, and more, ASF projects help create a vibrant, diverse, and enduring community. This blog series aims to highlight such projects, share stories, use cases, and resources, ensuring the hard work of ASF communities and their contributors is recognized and celebrated.
For more information about Apache Geode and to explore opportunities for involvement, visit Apache Geode’s official website.
This article reaffirms the potential of open-source collaboration and innovation, encapsulating the ongoing evolution of Apache Geode as it continues to adapt and thrive in the ever-changing technology landscape.
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