Semantic versioning is a standardized system for numbering software releases so developers can understand the impact of an update at a glance. It uses a three part version number: major, minor, and patch. Major versions introduce breaking changes, minor versions add backward compatible features, and patch versions fix bugs without altering behavior. Semantic versioning helps teams manage dependencies with confidence. It allows package managers and build systems to determine which versions are safe to upgrade. Clear versioning prevents unexpected behavior caused by incompatible updates.
why it matters
Semantic versioning improves collaboration by setting expectations across teams and communities. When a library follows semantic versioning, developers know when they must update code for compatibility. Tools like npm rely on version ranges to install appropriate dependencies. Semantic versioning also aids debugging by linking behavior changes to release numbers. Following semantic versioning practices ensures stable, predictable software delivery, especially in large ecosystems.