Safely Update Your AWS Lambda Functions' Runtime from Node.js 12 to Node.js 16

Learn how to update your AWS Lambda functions' runtime safely, from `Node.js 12 to Node.js 16`, and ensure a smooth transition without breaking changes.
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How to Safely Update Your AWS Lambda Functions' Runtime from Node.js 12 to Node.js 16

In recent communications from AWS, you may have received notifications regarding the deprecation of Node.js 12. If you’re managing AWS Lambda functions, it’s crucial to keep your runtimes updated to ensure support and security. This post will guide you through the process of safely transitioning your AWS Lambda functions from Node.js 12 to Node.js 16, while also addressing your queries about any potential impacts on your CloudFormation templates and other requirements.

Understanding the Update Process

Transitioning from Node.js 12.x to Node.js 16.x involves a few careful steps. Here's a clear breakdown of what you need to do to ensure that your Lambda functions continue to operate smoothly post-update.

Step 1: Updating the Runtime in the AWS Console

Access the AWS Console:

Navigate to Lambda > Functions > [Your Function].

Modify Runtime Settings:

Within the Code tab, find the Runtime settings section.

Change the Runtime selection from Node.js 12.x to Node.js 16.x.

After you've updated your function in the AWS Console, it's important to ensure that no functional issues arise from this change. You should test your functions thoroughly afterwards.

Step 2: Updating CloudFormation Templates (for AWS Amplify Projects)

If your Lambda functions are managed using AWS Amplify, you'll also need to make changes to your CloudFormation templates. Here's how:

Locate Your CloudFormation Template:

Go to amplify/backend/function/YOURLAMBDA/yourlambda-cloudformation-template.json for each Lambda function.

Update the Runtime Property:

Look for the property called "Runtime".

If it's currently set to nodejs14.x, change it to nodejs16.x, like so:

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

You generally only need to modify the Runtime line here.

Step 3: Testing Your Changes

After making the updates, it’s essential to test your changes in a development environment. This is particularly important because switching runtimes can often introduce subtle bugs if your code interacts differently with the newer platform.

Additional Considerations

CloudFormation Deployment: If you make changes directly via the AWS Console, these alterations can be overridden the next time you deploy your Lambda using the respective CloudFormation template. Ensure your template reflects all current settings to prevent any loss of your changes.

Awareness of Functionality: Make sure your code remains compatible with Node.js 16. Libraries and behaviors may differ slightly, so perform detailed testing.

Conclusion

Updating your AWS Lambda functions from Node.js 12 to Node.js 16 is a critical step in maintaining the security and functionality of your applications. By following these structured steps, updating the runtime in the AWS Console, ensuring proper adjustments in your CloudFormation templates, and rigorously testing your functions, you can successfully navigate this update with minimal disruption.

If you have any concerns or require further clarification, feel free to reach out. Happy coding!