What's new What's new Laravel 11? (r)
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Laravel 11 introduces several transformative features that boost developer productivity and boost application performance. From improved setup and debugging, to enhanced flexibilities, this release improves development efficiency and helps you build more robust applications. We'll dive right in!
The updated directory structure of Laravel 11
Laravel 11 comes with a new directories structure to improve productivity of development. The change makes it easier to organize of project files and pares down the boilerplate code that was included in earlier Laravel versions.
Eliminating certain directories, such as app/Exceptions and app/Http/Middleware This makes the Laravel 11 structure cleaner than the previous versions. In particular, older versions contained nine middlewares that you're not likely to alter. The elimination of this directory reduces weight of code, and allows you to concentrate on the most important aspects of the codebase. In the event that you have to customize middleware then you're able to do it via Application/ServiceProvider.
Laravel 11 also removes the configuration folder, changing how you manage configurations. The change is going to be covered in a future section.
Benefits of Laravel's updated directory structure include:
- Reusability of code -- With less boilerplate code, you can concentrate on developing modular components that can be reused. This ability to reuse common functions across applications leads to the development process to be more efficient.
- Enhances sharing of knowledge -- A less complex directory structure makes it easier to facilitate the sharing of knowledge among team members and people onboarding the latest technology. Simpler navigation of the product structure helps to make collaboration easier and effective.
- Reduced coding time Eliminating redundant directories and files means developers have less time to work using boilerplate code that is not needed. Rapider debugging, coding and testing lead to enhanced efficiency.
A simplified directory structure provides a refined development process and enables faster implementation of functionalities and features.
Enhanced flexibility with model casts
In previous versions of Laravel it was possible to define attributes through a properties array. With Laravel 11 it is possible to define model casts in a method aptly named casts().
This shift to model-based castings has several benefits similar to those of code methods or functions. One of the biggest advantages is code reuse. Incorporating casting logic into techniques makes code flexible and reuseable. Furthermore, since the casting() method delineates the casting of attributes and casting logic, your code will become easier to read and maintain.
It's also important to note that Laravel 11 ensures backward compatibility with older versions. This means that you are able to transition your existing codebases to make use of Laravel 11's improved model casting technique. It makes implementing Laravel 11 a smooth process particularly if you're already familiar with the previous versions.
Simple configuration
As we mentioned previously, Laravel 11 brings a new approach to managing configuration. It consolidates configuration settings into one source, the .env file. This is quite a change from earlier Laravel versions, which spread settings across several files.
The inclusion of configurations only in the .env file substantially enhances the efficiency. This also streamlines the development process and makes it easier and efficient.
Another important configuration-related update is the cascade feature, with which you can fine-tune your configurations by removing unnecessary options you don't want to customize. This results in smaller and efficient development.
A single .env file eliminates the need to create several files and instead stores all configurations relevant to the task all in one location. But, in the event that you come to feel that the .env file is becoming too large it is possible to utilize a command to move the configuration file to the config directory. For example, php artisan config:publish auth produces an auth.php file in the config directory.
Being able to find particular configurations is an enormous benefit to businesses.
Improved experience when debugging by using the Dumpable feature
The Dumpable trait is a valuable addition to Laravel 11. You can use common debugging tools within the classes, which include the dd() and dump() methods. They are essential for the debugging process because they offer instantaneous information about an object or variable.
Note that Dumpable is a new trait that dumpable trait is likely to replace the previous DDD and dump methods that are present in many of the core classes in Laravel providing a uniform and unifying debugging experience across the framework.
The Laravel 11's innovations in route handling
Laravel 11 greatly improves early versions with consolidated routing handling. It reduces the number of default route files from four to two: routes.php and console.php. This change is impactful because it cuts down on boilerplate and improves the user experience of the framework.
The broadcasting of events in Laravel 11 follows a similar pattern. To activate the functionality and create the channels.php file, run &php artisan install:broadcasting. This orchestrates the setup of essential files and configurations and speeds up the process of integrating broadcasting events into Laravel applications.
Collectively, these changes support the shift to an open and flexible design for the application. Because you can opt into certain functions, Laravel 11 offers a customized approach to file management than previous versions.
The development of the Laravel's HTTP kernel
The Laravel kernel is a vital component in the framework. It functions as the entry point for HTTP request and terminal commands. It orchestrates the process of these requests and also manages middleware stacks, routing, and many other elements that aid in the application's handling of incoming request.
Laravel 11 removes it from the Laravel kernel. Instead, you use the Bootstrap/App class, which binds essential interfaces into the container. Once you have set up all the required elements, it is the Bootstrap/App class returns the application instance. Separating the instance building process from execution of the application and the handling of responses provides a more flexible structure.
Eliminating this Laravel kernel is another method to cut down on boilerplate code. As the Bootstrap/App class handles the basic setting up, you'll be able to focus on creating your app's essential functions. When an application is running and is running, Bootstrap/App class will take care of the application's setup. Bootstrap/App class ensures the necessary web request handling, making the process of developing and encouraging the creation of a better-organized database of code.
Consolidated default migrations that improve efficiency
With Laravel 11 comes an overhaul of the default migration options. Prior versions, prior to 2014 through 2019, featured numerous default migrations spread over several file types. The latest version has condensed these files into only two, giving developers an easier as well as a user-friendly.
This reduction of default files for migrations simplifies accessing and managing generated migrations, increases the clarity of your database structures as well as reducing the possibility of error and confusion.
Additionally, using a more efficient and easier default configuration for migration it allows you to devote more time to focusing on the requirements specific to your project instead of battling with the complexities of the basic migration data.
Laravel 11's optimized default migrations contribute to a smoother development experience. This further strengthens the framework's reputation for prioritizing the simplicity of its use and user-friendliness.
PHP 8.2: The latest standard for Laravel 11.
With support for the latest two significant PHP versions, Laravel 11 enhances performance as well as security and the developer experience. Making PHP 8.2 the essential requirement to ensure your projects are future-proofed and unleashes the full capabilities for the programming language.
Summary
Laravel 11 brings significant improvements which promise to improve the development experience for you, your team, and for the entire developer community. Improvements in performance, improved support for the most recent PHP versions, and streamlined workflow tools help to make PHP development as smooth and efficient as is possible.
We're excited to see which applications you develop with Laravel 11. And how you use to help your Laravel application grow.
Marcia Ramos
I'm the editor's team lead at . I'm an open source lover and love programming. Over the past seven years experience in technical writing and editing in the technology industry, I am a fan of working alongside people to produce short and precise articles and enhance processes.