Camunda RDBMS Version Support: A Clear Policy

by Alex Johnson 46 views

Welcome to the definitive guide on Camunda's RDBMS (Relational Database Management System) Version Support Policy. This document serves as the single source of truth for our customers and internal teams, outlining which database versions are officially supported, how we integrate new versions, the process for deprecating older ones, and recommendations for JDBC driver versions. Our goal is to provide clarity, reduce uncertainty, and ensure a consistent support lifecycle across all Camunda components.

1. Supported RDBMS: Your Foundation for Compatibility

Choosing the right database is crucial for the stability and performance of your Camunda-powered applications. That's why we meticulously test and validate our software against a range of RDBMS versions. This section lists the currently production-supported versions, aligning with the latest engineering validation. This ensures that you can confidently select a database version that meets your specific needs. The supported RDBMS include: PostgreSQL, MariaDB, MySQL, SQL Server, Oracle, and H2. We continuously update this list based on rigorous testing and validation, so you can always rely on the most up-to-date information. Understanding this is key to building a robust and reliable system. This foundation is built on constant evaluation and refinement to guarantee compatibility and optimal performance.

Why is RDBMS Support Important?

  • Ensuring Compatibility: Our support policy ensures that Camunda is compatible with your chosen database versions, preventing unexpected issues or data loss.
  • Performance Optimization: We optimize Camunda's performance with supported database versions. This includes tuning configurations and leveraging database-specific features.
  • Security Compliance: By supporting the latest versions, we ensure compliance with security standards and offer security patches for known vulnerabilities.
  • Reliability and Stability: With RDBMS support, you get the assurance that your Camunda platform operates reliably and stably, minimizing the risk of disruptions.

2. Adding New RDBMS Versions: Our Approach to Innovation

We understand that new database versions bring exciting features, performance improvements, and security enhancements. Our policy outlines the criteria for adopting new database versions, ensuring a smooth and predictable process. This is designed to enable you to leverage the latest database technologies without sacrificing stability. This section details the steps we take to incorporate new database versions into our support matrix. The key considerations include:

  • Vendor Release Timeline: We carefully monitor the release schedules of database vendors like PostgreSQL, MariaDB, MySQL, SQL Server, and Oracle. This includes both general availability and any preview or beta programs.
  • Required Availability Window: A new database version must be available for a minimum period before we officially support it. This allows us to thoroughly test its compatibility and stability within our environment.
  • Implementation and Testing Effort: The integration of a new database version requires significant effort, including implementing specific testing processes and ensuring compatibility.

Benefits of a Structured Approach:

  • Early Access to New Features: Our policy lets you leverage new features and optimizations.
  • Enhanced Performance: Benefit from performance improvements.
  • Security Improvements: Stay secure by adopting the latest versions.
  • Seamless Transition: Minimize disruption and ensure a smooth migration.

3. Removing RDBMS Versions: Managing the Lifecycle

Just as we add new versions, we must eventually deprecate older ones. This section details the criteria and processes for removing database versions from our support list, ensuring a well-managed lifecycle. This is to ensure that our supported versions are maintained in line with the vendors' end-of-life (EoS) policies. This approach helps us to focus our resources on the most current and secure database versions. Key considerations include:

  • Vendor End-of-Support Rules: We align our support with the end-of-support policies of database vendors. When a vendor announces the EoS for a particular version, we initiate our deprecation process.
  • Six-Month Buffer Period: To provide customers with ample time to upgrade, we typically provide a six-month buffer period after a vendor's EoS announcement. This allows customers to plan their migrations without urgency.
  • Exceptions Process: While we strive to adhere to these rules, there may be exceptions based on customer demand or strategic factors. Any exceptions will be communicated transparently through our release notes and documentation.

Why Deprecation is Necessary:

  • Focus on Current Technologies: By deprecating older versions, we concentrate on supporting the newest technologies.
  • Security Enhancement: It ensures our platform benefits from the latest security patches.
  • Resource Allocation: It allows us to allocate resources to the most widely used and supported versions.
  • Improved Performance: Focus on supporting modern versions contributes to better performance and efficiency.

4. JDBC Driver Policy: Ensuring Connectivity

JDBC (Java Database Connectivity) drivers are the bridge between your Camunda applications and the database. This section outlines our policy for JDBC drivers, emphasizing the importance of using the latest compatible drivers to ensure optimal performance and security. Our policy ensures that Camunda will always support the latest JDBC driver compatible with the database version you are using. This ensures that you can always take advantage of the latest features, security patches, and performance improvements offered by your database vendor. The key aspects of our JDBC driver policy include:

  • Support for the Latest Driver: We commit to supporting the latest driver compatible with the specific database version. This helps guarantee compatibility and takes advantage of improvements.
  • Customer Recommendation: We recommend that customers always use the latest compatible JDBC driver. Doing so minimizes security vulnerabilities and ensures maximum performance.

Benefits of Using Up-to-Date Drivers:

  • Enhanced Performance: The latest drivers often contain performance optimizations that can significantly improve the speed and efficiency of your database interactions.
  • Security Updates: Keeping your drivers updated protects against security vulnerabilities and provides up-to-date security patches.
  • Compatibility: Newer drivers are built to seamlessly work with newer database versions, ensuring stability and preventing errors.
  • Bug Fixes: Newer drivers contain bug fixes and improvements that can resolve issues and improve reliability.

5. Communication: Staying Informed

Communication is key. We are committed to keeping you informed about any changes to our RDBMS Support Policy. Additions and removals of database versions will always be announced in our release notes. This provides you with timely information about updates and enables you to plan accordingly. Furthermore, this documentation page will always reflect the current list of supported versions. This ensures that you have access to the most accurate and up-to-date information. Transparency and clear communication are essential components of our commitment to supporting your database needs.

How We Communicate Changes:

  • Release Notes: All significant changes to our support policy, including the addition or removal of database versions, are announced in our release notes.
  • Documentation Updates: We promptly update this documentation page to reflect any changes in supported versions and policies.
  • Direct Notifications: We may provide direct notifications to customers through our support channels.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What happens when a database version is deprecated? When a database version is deprecated, it means that Camunda will no longer provide updates or support for it. We strongly recommend upgrading to a supported version before the deprecation date.
  • Where can I find the latest JDBC driver? You should always obtain the latest JDBC driver directly from the database vendor’s website.
  • Can I use a database version not listed as supported? While Camunda may work with unsupported database versions, we do not guarantee compatibility, and we recommend that you use only supported versions for production environments.

This policy ensures that you can confidently select a database version that meets your specific needs and that your Camunda platform operates reliably and stably.

For more information, consider exploring the official documentation of the database vendors. For example, for PostgreSQL, you can visit the PostgreSQL Documentation.