Ruby on Rails, commonly known as “Rails” is an open-source development framework for web applications written in Ruby’s programming language. Ruby has an extensive library of web applications, but Rails is by and far the most popular, sparking many developers to learn Ruby.
Rails simplifies the web development process, which is a welcomed trait considering the complex layers of modern web applications. Rails provide a pre-built structure and tools to develop a web application. There are many benefits to choosing Ruby on Rails, but keeping things up-to-date is crucial.
Ecliptic Ideas is an expert in Ruby on Rails upgrade services so that you can keep your business up to date on all significant software developments. In this article, we’ll explore why Ruby on Rails upgrades are so important, some of the benefits of keeping Rails updated, and how Ecliptic Ideas’ can help.
Reasons Why a Ruby on Rails Upgrade is Necessary
Generally speaking, it’s always suggested to keep web applications updated, especially when trying to stay competitive in the digital world. Some businesses might find this stage of web development cumbersome, but keeping software updated is the best way to keep important data secure. Some of the major reasons Ruby on Rails should be updated include:
- Maintain Integrity: There are numerous advantages of updating Ruby on Rails, but one of the biggest is the patches that identify vulnerability when upgrading. There will also be critical security updates to keep in mind, which can be prevented and uphold the company’s expectations for the application.
- Data Protection: Bank account information, emails, and employee data are just a few of the data items that might be compromised by neglecting a web application’s updates. Keep data secured and out of the hands of hackers by upgrading Ruby on Rails to prevent encrypted data or identity theft.
- Access Valued Tools: By completing a Ruby on Rails update, businesses can access attractive features and improvements that they might have been missing out on. You can get faster applications and increased stability to see positive feedback across the board.
- Time Savings: It’s important to keep all software libraries well-maintained, a business can save time long-term when rewriting code or pushing forth software features. When developers drag their feet on updates, you can avoid losing crucial time by needing to address unsupported frameworks.
What You Need to Upgrade Ruby on Rails
Another reason it’s important to keep Ruby on Rails up to date is that it becomes increasingly difficult to do so for those that put off performing these updates. That said, it’s important to not rush the upgrading process by performing upgrading each minor version at one time. The step-by-step process for preparing a web application for a Ruby on Rails update is as follows:
- Write and perform code tests to guarantee they all pass
- Move to the latest patch version gradually
- Repair tests and deprecated features
- Repeat the process until the applicated reached the latest Rails version
Benefits of Keeping Ruby on Rails Up-to-Date
Now that we’ve explored why Ruby on Rails upgrades are necessary and some of the action items required for a Rails upgrade to be successful, let’s explore some of the biggest advantages of keeping Ruby on Rails as updated as possible.
Security
One of the biggest advantages of keeping your Rails applications updated is the increased sense of security. Whether your company seeks to prevent data theft from cybercriminals or team members on the inside, Ruby on Rails’ security upgrades are some of the best tools for risk prevention.
Performance
Anyone who has held off on updating software will instantly see how performance will suffer over time. Outside of security, making sure the user experience upholds company expectations is one of the most substantial advantages of keeping Ruby on Rails updated.
New Features / Functionality / Enhancements
As we briefly mentioned above, there are numerous features, enhancements, and functionality updates available to those who complete Ruby on Rails upgrades promptly. Not only do these new features improve performance, but they’ll help developers identify necessary changes.
Keep Up with Modern Conventions
Even if you’ve resigned yourself to procrastinating software updates, that doesn’t mean the competition will. In order to stay up-to-date within an ever-changing digital space, Ruby on Rails upgrades are required to keep up with modern conventions. These changes might seem time-consuming to some, but time is wasted more by putting the upgrades off.
Easier to Keep All Dependencies Up-to-Date
It’s crucial to keep dependencies as updated as possible to prevent incompatibilities and uphold security measures and performance features. Ruby on Rails upgrades ensures that all dependencies, including integration gems and feature gems, are updated.
The Ecliptic Ideas Ruby on Rails Upgrade Process
For businesses that need to spend more time focusing on company goals, Ecliptic Ideas is here to take the responsibility into our own hands. We have extensive experience in providing Ruby on Rails upgrades, and with just a few preparation items, your web applications will be on their way to staying updated within the always-changing digital market.
- Make sure the app is being backed up
- Code is in a repository
- Service is updated
- Make sure there is good test coverage
Once you’ve ensured those items are good to go, Ecliptic Ideas will analyze your web application’s data to provide the Rails updates you need. We’ll then:
- Update to the maximum patch version
- Complete a step-by-step update of the app itself
- Perform test checks
- Fix and resolve bugs
- Do a gem/dependency review and update
- Perform a physical/manual QA
Ecliptic Ideas Makes Ruby on Rails Updates Simple
Ecliptic Ideas is here to simplify the Ruby on Rails updating process. With an extensive front-to-back grasp of the full web software development cycle, we have the tools and resources to ensure your web applications run like a well-oiled machine so that business owners can focus on accomplishing their company goals. Contact an Ecliptic Ideas team member to learn more about our Rails upgrade services today!