Do you have a web application that uses AngularJS, and has the update been postponed for a while? Okay, your application works, but as you probably know, AngularJS has not been supported or updated since the end of 2021, which may mean security risks or that newer browser updates do not support your application.
Updates from AngularJS may seem daunting, but we believe they can be significantly smoother with the proper preparation and understanding of the process! In this article, we’ll walk you through the critical steps to updating your AngularJS application, from identifying why you need to update to implementing the update itself and dealing with any issues that may arise.
Why update from AngularJS?
First, it is essential to understand why an update of AngularJS is necessary. Regular updates ensure your application remains secure and compatible with modern browsers and other technologies. In addition, updates can introduce new features and improvements that optimise performance and user experience.
Many developers update their AngularJS applications to other frameworks such as Angular, React or Vue to benefit from regular bug fixes and security updates. Keeping your application up to date reduces the risk of vulnerabilities that malicious actors can exploit. In addition, new features and improvements in newer versions can make it easier to maintain and further develop the application. Many old applications also do not work well on mobile devices. We can update these apps to make them mobile-friendly and adapt to the device used, but also check and suggest how you can future-proof your technology.
Preparing for the update
Preparing your application and development environment is essential before starting the update. Start by making a full copy of your current application, including the code and the database. This way, you can always revert to a working version if something goes wrong during the update process. Unless your entire application is based on AngularJS or you want to do the update in stages, make sure that you can roll back at each stage if something goes wrong.
Also, inventory the dependencies and third-party libraries your application uses. Make sure they are compatible with the new version. Updating or replacing some libraries may be necessary to ensure full compatibility.
Carry out the update
When you are ready to start the update, it is essential to follow a structured process. Start by reading through the official documentation for the new version of Angular. Here, you’ll find detailed instructions and significant changes you must know.
It may be wise to update your application in stages. By updating one part at a time, you can more easily identify and fix any issues. After each step, test your application thoroughly to ensure everything works properly.
Dealing with common problems
During the update, you may encounter various problems. One common issue is breaking changes in APIs and functions that can affect how your code works. By carefully reading the release notes and changelogs, you can anticipate these changes and adapt your code in advance.
There may also be issues with third-party libraries that are no longer compatible with the new version of AngularJS. In such cases, you may need to look for alternative libraries or rewrite parts of your code to handle these changes.
After the update
Once the update is complete and you’ve verified that everything is working correctly, it’s a good idea to document the changes you’ve made. This will help you and other developers understand what has changed and why.
Also, all dependencies and third-party libraries should be updated to the latest versions to take advantage of the latest improvements and security patches. Finally, continue to monitor your application regularly and stay up to date with the latest versions of AngularJS to ensure it remains secure and modern.
Do you need help?
If you need help upgrading your AngularJS application, don’t hesitate to contact us at Gislen Software. We have the expertise and experience to ensure a smooth and efficient update process. Whether you face technical challenges or need strategic guidance, we are here to help you achieve your goals. Contact us today to discuss how we can support your upgrade!