Semver, the semantic version parser vital to npm, saw a notable update from version 5.4.1 to 5.5.0. While both versions share the same core description, development dependencies (using the tap testing framework), ISC license, and repository location on GitHub, key differences lie in their release date and the implications of advancing the minor version number, showcasing backward compatibility.
Version 5.4.1 was released on July 24, 2017, whereas version 5.5.0 followed on January 16, 2018. This six-month gap suggests accumulated bug fixes, performance improvements, or the addition of new, non-breaking features within the library. For developers, the jump from 5.4.1 to 5.5.0 signifies potentially enhanced functionality without risking significant disruption to existing projects, given the library semantic versioning practices.
The dist attribute, pointing to the tarball on the npm registry, also differs, reflecting each version's unique build. Choosing between these versions depends on the project's specific needs. If a project requires the most stable, battle-tested version available up to July 2017, version 5.4.1 might be preferable. However, for projects benefiting from the improvements implemented since then, version 5.5.0 presents a compelling upgrade, ensuring access to the latest refinements in semantic version parsing while remaining broadly compatible. Developers should consult the changelog on the project's official channels for precise details of changes between these version of semver.
All the vulnerabilities related to the version 5.5.0 of the package
semver vulnerable to Regular Expression Denial of Service
Versions of the package semver before 7.5.2 on the 7.x branch, before 6.3.1 on the 6.x branch, and all other versions before 5.7.2 are vulnerable to Regular Expression Denial of Service (ReDoS) via the function new Range, when untrusted user data is provided as a range.
