Every year, ColdFusion developers (“CFers”) continue to invest in learning new tools, frameworks, and technologies that keep the CFML ecosystem modern and relevant. The community never stands still — and 2026 is no exception. Below are the top ColdFusion tools and concepts CFers are focusing on today, based on community discussions, polls, and the State of the CF Union Survey.
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1. CommandBox
CommandBox remains the number-one learning priority for CF developers. Built by Ortus Solutions, it provides a command line interface (CLI) and package manager for CFML that works on Windows, macOS, and Linux.
“CommandBox is a standalone, native tool for Windows, Mac, and Linux that provides a CLI for developer productivity, package management, embedded CFML servers, application scaffolding, and automation.”
- Launch local Adobe CF or Lucee servers instantly
- Automate builds and deployments
- Manage dependencies through ForgeBox
- Integrate with Docker, GitHub Actions, and cloud CI/CD pipelines
Learn more about CommandBox here.
2. AWS Lambda
AWS Lambda allows ColdFusion developers to experiment with serverless computing by running Java-based CFML code without managing traditional servers.
“Lambda is a serverless compute service that lets you run code without provisioning or managing servers, handling cluster scaling, or maintaining event integrations.”
- Ideal for microservices and background tasks
- Pay only for the compute time used
- Integrates with CFML through REST APIs or Java interop
Learn more about AWS Lambda here.
3. VS Code CFML Extension
Visual Studio Code has become the preferred editor for CF developers. The CFML extension pack provides syntax highlighting, code completion, and debugging for Adobe CF and Lucee servers.
- Free and cross-platform
- Integrates with Git, Docker, and cloud workflows
- Supports AI-assisted coding via GitHub Copilot
Compare Adobe ColdFusion Builder vs Code Blocks.
4. Microservices
Microservices architecture continues to grow in importance for modern ColdFusion apps. It allows developers to break large applications into smaller, independent services that can be updated and scaled individually.
“Microservices — also known as the microservice architecture — is an architectural style that structures an application as a collection of services that are:
- Highly maintainable and testable
- Loosely coupled
- Independently deployable
- Organized around business capabilities
- Owned by small, focused teams
This architecture enables the rapid, frequent, and reliable delivery of complex applications and allows organizations to evolve their technology stack over time.”
Learn more about Microservices here.
5. Lucee CFML
Lucee CFML remains a core open-source engine that powers thousands of ColdFusion applications worldwide. It’s fast, lightweight, and compatible with modern Java environments.
- Free and open-source
- Runs CFML and integrates with CommandBox
- Ideal for containerized and cloud-native applications
Learn more about Lucee CFML here.
Why CFers Keep Learning
The ColdFusion ecosystem is evolving faster than ever, driven by modernization, cloud adoption, and automation. Whether you’re exploring BoxLang, upgrading to Adobe CF 2025, or fine-tuning performance with FusionReactor Cloud, the same spirit of curiosity continues to define this community.
Stay involved in the conversation via the ColdFusion Programmers Facebook group or by following the CF Alive Podcast for the latest insights and interviews.
