Component Release Levels

The Java ES release model is based on a set of release levels that define the characteristics of individual Java ES component releases:

• Major release. The purpose of a major release is to introduce or change significant software functionality and architectural features. As such, it can introduce incompatibilities with previous versions, and operating system support may be dropped. As a result, users may be required to take specific actions in order for their applications to integrate with a major release. As part of upgrading to a new major release, users might have to perform migrations, redeployments, and possibly redesign their solutions to utilize new features or respond to the removal of old features.

• Minor release. The purpose of a minor release is to introduce new, non-interfering features without introducing incompatibilities. New prerequisites or dependencies can be established and previous features can be deprecated in a minor release. As compared to upgrading to a major release, users might have to perform migrations and redeployments, but a redesign of their existing solution should not be necessary.

• Update release. The purpose of an update release is to provide fixes to an existing component implementation so that it more accurately implements a prior release's functional specification. The update release provides for the delivery of bug fixes and a constrained set of feature enhancements such that the release remains suitable for adoption by the majority of existing users. When compared to a major or minor release an update release contains fewer, smaller and/or lower risk features. Other than in rare exceptions, an update release is 100% backwardly compatible with the prior release. Upgrading to an update release from the prior release should require minimal planning and investment.

• Point-fix release. The purpose of a point-fix release is to address critical customer issues quickly. Like an update release, it supports existing users, but is generally more limited or focused, typically containing only a few bug fixes. Feature enhancements or new feature additions are not allowed in a point-fix release. Upgrading to a point-fix release from the prior release should be simple an low risk.