On the 17th day of May in the year of our coding lore, 2023, Adobe unfurled the banner of ColdFusion 2023, a release awaited with the eagerness of hobbits for their second breakfast. Brimming with an array of new wonders and enchantments, this latest version grants developers an experience as refreshing as a pint of ale at The Green Dragon.

The release of Adobe ColdFusion 2023 stirred the air like the whispers of a wizard's spell, promising to forge new paths in web application development. With some new features and enhancements, ColdFusion 2023 eased the lives of developers across the globe.

The CF Alive podcast had a grand, two-part saga exploring Adobe ColdFusion 2023's improvements, upgrades, and new features,with CF evangelist wizard Mark Takata. (Check out pparts 1 and2).

This article will use Takata's wisdom, fervor, and mastery (along with a touch of my own humble insight) to guide a journey through the advancements in CF 2023 and uncover why it is a worthy upgrade for developers seeking the lands of modern web development.

What's new or improved in ColdFusion 2023?

Still Fast

As development platforms accumulate new features and enhancements, they often transform into cumbersome, lumbering behemoths, groaning under their weight like an old Ent slow to action. Not so with ColdFusion 2023! 

This release stands firm and swift, like a Ranger on the hunt. Despite the abundance of new marvels woven into its fabric, there is no slumber in its steps. The performance between ColdFusion 2021 and 2023 shows no decline—nay, it remains as nimble as an elf leaping through the forests of Lothlórien.

“The performance between 2021 and 2023 has not changed, which is in some ways good because 2021 was pretty fast,” Takata said.

Multi-Cloud Support Enhancements

Adobe, like a benevolent wizard heeding the call of its adventurers, long ago granted developers their wish by weaving multi-cloud support into the very tapestry of ColdFusion. With each passing year, incremental improvements were made to these tools, crafting them like fine elven blades that were ever sharper and more effective.

Then, in 2023, the enchantment of multi-cloud support was further refined. Uniformity in authentication processes across the great cloud realms—AWS, Azure, and Google—was achieved. This ensures that managing deployments across these diverse platforms becomes as straightforward as following the clear path through Rivendell, freeing developers from the tangles of cloud-specific complexities.

“You can use the same tags and nomenclature across all three clouds to handle storage, messaging, and other services,” Takata said in the CF Alive podcast (check out part two below).

Stabilization of Containerization

While ColdFusion 2021 brought sweeping changes to the realm of containerization, modularizing everything as if reforging ancient tools into new shapes, ColdFusion 2023 has taken those advancements and tempered them like fine steel. These features have been stabilized to make deployments more straightforward and more efficient, the work of steady hands and keen minds. 

“In 2023, we've just stabilized a lot of that stuff,” declared the wise Mark Takata, like a seasoned ranger recounting his latest journey. “We've continued to keep the sizes small.” 

And with this newfound stability comes the power to forge a much-desired addition—a boon that developers have long yearned for, now within their grasp…

Google Cloud Platform (GCP) Services and GCP Storage

ColdFusion 2023 now bears native support for several robust services of the Google Cloud Platform (GCP), including Google Cloud Storage, Pub/Sub, and Firestore. With these new allies at their side, developers can wield the might of GCP for their applications with greater ease and dexterity.

This newfound support allows developers to optimize their ColdFusion projects within the vast realms of GCP Cloud Storage, deftly communicating with multiple databases with but a single line of code—like a wizard casting a spell to bend reality to their will. The treasures of GCP storage are many:

1. Expandable like a magic bag that never fills,
2. Elastic as the great wings of the eagles,
3. Accessible from near or far,
4. And more affordable than ever before—indeed, a treasure worth claiming!

ColdFusion and GCP Firestore

Whilst toiling with the powers of Adobe ColdFusion 2023, one finds the path to dynamic and automatic scalability made clear through GCP Firestore. This means wielding the ability to:

1. Process vast volumes of data, like moving mountains with a single push,
2. Utilize a flexible, JSON-like data model, as adaptable as an elf in any terrain,
3. And enhance both performance and ease in the art of application development by harnessing these mighty features.

The integration of Firestore is a revelation to behold, for it offers a simpler alternative to the often labyrinthine NoSQL databases like DynamoDB. 

“I have never used such an easy database in my life,” Takata said. “It's so user-friendly.”

ColdFusion and GCP PubSub

Cast away the burdensome complexities of message-oriented middleware and elevate the performance and scalability of your applications with the power of GCP Pub/Sub. With this mighty tool in hand, you can effortlessly access messaging queue services, transmitting any volume of data across your realms of applications like the swift wings of the Great Eagles. Fear not, for Pub/Sub also allows you to keep a vigilant watch over the status of your messages, ensuring that nothing is lost in the mists of time or space.

GraphQL

ColdFusion 2023 grants developers the power to wield GraphQL for their queries, and that, dear traveler, is no small feat. While ColdFusion currently supports reading in GraphQL, whispers of future plans speak of expanding this feature to make it even easier to craft APIs using GraphQL—a mighty tool indeed for those who shape the realms of web development.

“This is a game-changer for everybody,” Takata said in the CF Alive podcast. “This is the way that people will probably be doing a lot of their querying in the future.”

And how does this magic work? It simplifies communication with GraphQL clients by abstracting away the minutiae, leaving behind a clear and straightforward path. It offers additional enchantments such as query batching and deduplication, and even the static typing of GraphQL query results. This powerful combination allows clients to specify their queries while servers stand ready to validate the incoming data against a strongly-typed schema, ensuring both precision and harmony in data exchange. A true boon for those who seek clarity and efficiency in their code!

The support for GraphQL in ColdFusion 2023 is a forward-looking feature. “We wanted to do something that we really hadn't done in a long time, which was to be ahead of the curve,” Takata said.

Revamped PDF Engine

ColdFusion 2023 unveils a brand-new PDF engine, a mighty forge that elevates PDF creation by embracing the standards of the modern web. No longer bound by the constraints of the past, this engine now supports CSS Grid, Flexbox, and a host of other contemporary CSS features, enabling developers to craft pixel-perfect PDFs with the precision of an elven smith.

This newfound power is especially valuable when forging forms or documents that demand exact formatting—like tax forms or official decrees—where every line, margin, and detail must be flawless. With this new PDF engine, developers can rest assured that what they see on the screen will be exactly what appears on the page, as if it were cast in mithril and set in stone.

“Now, when you output something, it looks the same in the PDF as it looks on your screen in the browser. Pixel Perfect,” Takata said.

The new engine also introduces the ability to embed both audio and video into PDFs—a feature that, while not entirely practical in the realm of print, brings new life to digital documents. Additionally, it supports SVG graphics, allowing scalable vector graphics to be seamlessly included, akin to etching fine runes that can resize without losing their clarity.

Though perhaps not a boon widely requested by the masses, these features open up new realms of possibility for interactive documents—scrolls that not only inform but also engage, offering developers the chance to enchant their readers with multimedia and precision-crafted visuals.

“You can scale them to nearly any size… from the size of a building to the size of something you'd print on a pen,” Takata said.

The new engine also addresses limitations on the size of files that can be converted to PDFs, increasing the upper limit significantly.

For those who still tread the paths of older PDF workflows, fear not! Even with the new engine blazing its trail, ColdFusion 2023 continues to uphold the time-honored practices of PDF manipulation, including DDX and PDF merging. The wisdom of the past remains within reach.

Should developers need to maintain their established PDF workflows, they can simply turn back to the familiar ways by switching to the old engine through the CF Administrator. This foresight ensures that the journey to upgrade is less disruptive, allowing developers to transition at their own pace, like travelers choosing between the well-trodden road and the uncharted yet promising new path.​

“You can downgrade the engine and use the old one until you've refactored,” Takata said.

The new PDF engine dispels the need for arcane trickery and convoluted workarounds to align elements just so—a grievance often voiced by those who labored with the old engine. Gone are the days of pixel nudging and margin incantations, where developers had to summon every trick in their spellbook to achieve proper alignment. As Takata put it, “You needed to do all sorts of stupid web tricks, right? And it was frustrating and annoying.”

JSON Web Tokens (JWT)

CF 2023 ushers in support for JSON Web Tokens (JWTs), a powerful tool for secure API authentication and authorization across different realms of an application. “We added JSON Web Tokens, and it's the whole deal—the whole enchilada,” declared Takata, leaving no doubt that ColdFusion has fully embraced this security measure.

With this new capability, developers can craft and issue JWTs directly from ColdFusion or validate tokens forged by other third-party applications. Whether it's creating signed tokens for trust and integrity or encrypting JWTs for an added layer of secrecy, ColdFusion 2023 provides the means to weave security into the very fabric of your application, tailored to your design's needs.

Central Configuration Server (CCS)

A new command-line-based tool, the Central Configuration Server (CCS), has emerged from the forges of ColdFusion 2023, empowering developers to command multiple ColdFusion servers from a single vantage point. With CCS, one can deftly set up servers for production, development, or staging environments, configure JVM arguments, and even replicate settings from one server to another with a flick of the wrist.

But the true gem in this tool's crown is the undo function—a rare and much-needed safeguard in the realm of server management. If a configuration goes awry, administrators can simply invoke the power of undo to restore order, a feature so unexpected that it caught many by surprise. “This is a first for ColdFusion,” Takata proudly remarked, and indeed, it is a standout among server management tools.

ColdFusion 2023 also introduces the use of server secrets and centralized authentication management through the administrator, ensuring that security and control are wielded with the wisdom and care of a seasoned steward.

ColdFusion 2023 also introduces the use of server secrets and centralized authentication management through the administrator, ensuring that security and control are wielded with the wisdom and care of a seasoned steward. “You can define your authentication objects in your code, but instead of adding your auth information, you can use server secrets,” Takata said.

Single Sign-On (SSO) and LDAP Integration for CF Admin

ColdFusion 2023 brings forth Single Sign-On (SSO) and LDAP group integration for the ColdFusion Administrator, a boon for enterprises seeking to masterfully manage user access. With this newfound capability, administrators can wield pinpoint control over who gains entry to different chambers of the CF Admin interface.

No more fumbling with scattered keys or worrying about who holds the right ones—this integration provides a streamlined way to govern access, ensuring each user sees only what they are meant to see. It's a much-welcome enhancement, blending security with convenience, like a well-forged gate that opens only for the rightful bearer.

Enhanced Documentation and Ease of Use

If any of this seems like an arcane riddle or a passage from an ancient tome, fear not—Adobe has your back. The company has rolled out thorough and robust documentation for the new features, such as GCP integration, ensuring that developers don't have to wander through a labyrinth of guesswork.

With clear guides and well-laid paths, even those without extensive prior knowledge can quickly get up to speed and harness the full potential of ColdFusion 2023's offerings. It's like having a trusty map in hand as you venture into new, promising territories.

Annual Release Cycle

ColdFusion has embarked on a new journey with its shift to an annual release cycle, bringing more frequent updates and swifter access to new features. This steady march forward ensures that developers are not left waiting for ages like hobbits in the Shire, but are instead regularly treated to fresh innovations and improvements. With each new release, ColdFusion evolves to meet the ever-changing needs of its adventurers, delivering tools and enhancements that keep their development quests both exciting and efficient.

“Having a new version every year allows us to actually, like, be reactive and, in some cases, proactive in providing those features to folks,” Takata said.

Other Additions and Changes

Though these are the brightest gems in ColdFusion 2023's treasure hoard, there are many more features and enhancements tucked within its depths. Detailing them all would fill more scrolls than even the libraries of Minas Tirith could hold. So, for those eager to delve deeper into the complete list of what Adobe ColdFusion 2023 has to offer, I've gathered them here for your perusal. Follow the provided links to the Adobe website, where the complete chronicles await.

Migrating to Adobe ColdFusion 2023: Seamlessly Transitioning to the Future

For seasoned ColdFusion developers, the migration to ColdFusion 2023 offers a grand opportunity to harness its newfound power. This brief guide will lead you through the process, helping you transition with ease and unlock all that ColdFusion 2023 has to offer.

Assessing the Terrain

Before beginning the journey, assess the lay of the land—your codebase, that is. Delve into Adobe's migration guides and release notes, for within them lies the wisdom to spot potential pitfalls and deprecated features. A thorough review of your code will reveal what may need altering before stepping onto the new path.

Setting Up Camp for Testing

Prepare a safe haven—a testing environment—that mirrors your production realm. Here, test your application in the new ColdFusion landscape, uncovering any missteps or performance quirks before venturing forth. Such preparation ensures a smooth migration, minimizing unwanted surprises.

Handling the Relics of the Past

ColdFusion 2023 may have cast aside some older features. Review these deprecated relics and refactor your code to align with the new order. Adjust for language changes and take advantage of the new strengths ColdFusion offers.

Upgrading Allies

Check your third-party libraries and dependencies—your trusted allies in development. Ensure they're ready for ColdFusion 2023's demands. Outdated libraries may cause friction on the journey, so equip yourself with the latest versions to ensure a seamless adventure.

Optimizing for the Journey Ahead

Use this migration as a chance to fine-tune your performance. ColdFusion 2023 brings swift new mechanisms, optimized servers, and reduced memory use. Refine your application with best practices—streamlined logic and efficient queries—to maximize its potential.

Testing and Validation

Before deploying, test every aspect of your application to ensure all is in working order. Performance, scalability, integrations—validate them all so that your users encounter not a single snag on the road.

ColdFusion wizard Charlie Arehart has written and given a powerful talk on CF 2023 migration, which we recommend CF hobbits and wizards watch.

Other Additions and Changes

Though these are but the brightest gems in ColdFusion 2023's treasure hoard, there are many more features and enhancements tucked within its depths. Detailing them all would fill more scrolls than even the libraries of Minas Tirith could hold. So, for those eager to delve deeper into the complete list of what Adobe ColdFusion 2023 has to offer, I've gathered them here for your perusal. Follow the provided links to the Adobe website, where the complete chronicles await.

Avro and Protocol Buffer

• SerializeAvro
• SerializeProtoBuf
• DeSerializeAvro
• DeSerializeProtoBuf

Integrate SAML and LDAP support with ColdFusion Administrator.

ColdFusion Administrator changes

Deprecated features in ColdFusion

Bugs fixed in ColdFusion 2023

Adobe ColdFusion Known Issues page

Adobe ColdFusion 2023 Support Matrix download PDF available here

Adobe ColdFusion 2023 Enterprise features

1. Central Configuration Server
2. HTML to PDF
3. Modularization
4. Docker Images
5. Asynchronous Programming
6. Improved Object-Oriented Support
7. Database Monitoring
8. External Services Monitoring
9. Full CFSCRIPT Support
10. Web Services Support
11. Dynamic and Interactive HTML5 Charting
12. Code Profiler
13. CF Setup
14. REST Playground
15. CLI and Read-Eval-Print Loop (REPL)
16. Language Enhancements
17. Automatic Connector Tuning
18. Standardized PDF Metadata
19. Object-Relational Mapping Support
20. Email Management

For more details and tech specs, visit this page

Adobe ColdFusion 2023 Standard features

1. GraphQL Client
2. Lightweight Installer
3. Docker Images
4. Asynchronous Programming
5. Improved Object-Oriented Support
6. Dynamic and Interactive HTML5 Charting
7. Code Profiler
8. Database Monitoring
9. External Services Monitoring
10. Full CFSCRIPT Support
11. Language Enhancements
12. Distributed Cache
13. Automatic Connector Tuning
14. Standardized PDF Metadata
15. CF Setup
16. CLI and Read-Eval-Print Loop (REPL)
17. Object-Relational Mapping Support
18. Email Management

For more details and tech specs, visit this page

System requirements

Adobe ColdFusion 2023 Enterprise:

• Download a PDF of this document
• Visit the Adobe ColdFusion 2023 website and read it there

Adobe ColdFusion 2023 Standard:

• Download a PDF of this document
• Visit the Adobe ColdFusion 2023 website and read it there.

Pricing 

Adobe ColdFusion Standard 2023: US$2.499

Make sure to try it out first, and you can do it for free. Follow this link for download and a 30-day free trial.

Buy it now by following this link.

Adobe ColdFusion Enterprise 2023: US$9.499

Follow this link for download and a 30-day free trial.

Buy it now by following this link.

Onwards

Adobe ColdFusion 2023 emerges as a true herald of change, breathing fresh vigor into the realm of web application development. With its masterful enhancements to HTML-to-PDF conversion, fortified security strongholds, and the streamlined command of the Central Configuration Server, this new release stands as a mighty tool in any developer's arsenal. Add to that the powerful integration of a GraphQL client and its unmatched prowess in performance and scalability, and it becomes clear why ColdFusion 2023 has become the talk of the developer community, reinforcing its standing as a top-tier technology in the industry.

As we set forth on this new chapter in ColdFusion development, the road ahead is paved with boundless potential. With Adobe's unwavering commitment to innovation and a developer community that thrives with passion, the future gleams with promise. So, brace yourselves to harness the might of Adobe ColdFusion 2023 and embark on a journey where the only limit to what you can build is the breadth of your imagination.

Ready to elevate your web development game with the power of Adobe ColdFusion 2023? Don't be like Boromir—going it alone isn't the answer! Reach out today, and let's make your applications as robust and secure as the gates of Minas Tirith—minus the siege!

And to continue learning how to make your ColdFusion apps more modern and alive, I encourage you to download our free ColdFusion Alive Best Practices Checklist.

Because… perhaps you are responsible for a mission-critical or revenue-generating CF application that you don’t trust 100%, where implementing new features is a painful ad-hoc process with slow turnaround even for simple requests.

What if you have no contingency plan for a sudden developer departure or a server outage? Perhaps every time a new freelancer works on your site, something breaks. Or your application availability, security, and reliability are poor.

And if you are depending on ColdFusion for your job, then you can’t afford to let your CF development methods die on the vine.

You’re making a high-stakes bet that everything is going to be OK using the same old app creation ways in that one language — forever.

All it would take is for your fellow CF developer to quit or for your CIO to decide to leave the (falsely) perceived sinking ship of CFML and you could lose everything—your project, your hard-won CF skills, and possibly even your job.

Luckily, there are a number of simple, logical steps you can take now to protect yourself from these obvious risks.

No Brainer ColdFusion Best Practices to Ensure You Thrive No Matter What Happens Next

ColdFusion Alive Best Practices Checklist

Modern ColdFusion development best practices that reduce stress, inefficiency, project lifecycle costs while simultaneously increasing project velocity and innovation.

√ Easily create a consistent server architecture across development, testing, and production

√ A modern test environment to prevent bugs from spreading

√ Automated continuous integration tools that work well with CF

√ A portable development environment baked into your codebase… for free!

 

Learn about these and many more strategies in our free ColdFusion Alive Best Practices Checklist.