Software version numbering systems

Software version numbering systems typically follow a format like Major, Minor, Patch. Here's a
breakdown:

1. Major Version: Represents significant changes or additions, often indicating a major release
with new features. Incremented when there are substantial updates that may not be
backward compatible.

2. Minor Version: Indicates smaller, incremental improvements or new features that are
backward compatible with the previous version. Incremented for each release with notable,
but not major, changes.

3. Patch Version (or Revision): Used for bug fixes, patches, or minor updates that do not
introduce new features. Incremented for each release addressing issues in the software.

For example, version 3.5.2 might signify the third major release, the fifth minor update, and the
second patch or revision. Some projects also include build numbers or pre-release identifiers for finer
version control.

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1. Major Version:

 Represents significant changes or milestones.

 Usually incremented for major updates or rewrites.

 Example: Going from version 2 to version 3, indicating a significant overhaul or

2. Minor Version:

 Indicates smaller, incremental improvements or feature additions.

 Typically backward compatible with the previous version in the same major version.

 Example: Moving from version 3.1 to 3.2, suggesting the introduction of new
features or enhancements.

3. Patch Version (or Revision):

 Used for bug fixes, patches, or minor updates that don't introduce new features.

 Ensures that the software remains stable and secure.

 Example: Updating from version 3.2.1 to 3.2.2, signalling bug fixes or security
patches.

4. Build Number:

 Sometimes included for finer version control.

 Represents a specific build or compilation of the software.

5. Pre-release Identifiers:

 Indicate if a version is in alpha, beta, or release candidate stage.

 Alpha versions may have incomplete features, while beta versions are more stable
but may still have bugs.

 Example: Version 3.2.2-beta1, denoting the first beta release of version 3.2.2.

6. Semantic Versioning (SemVer):

 A standardized versioning system that follows the Major.Minor.Patch format.

 Adheres to specific rules for version increments, ensuring clarity about compatibility.

 Example: Version 1.2.3, following the SemVer conventions where each component
has a defined meaning.

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1. Release Candidates (RC):

 Versions labeled as release candidates are close to being finalized.

 Used to gather user feedback and identify any remaining issues before the official
release.

 Example: Version 3.0.0-rc1, denoting the first release candidate for version 3.0.0.

2. Long-Term Support (LTS):

 Some versions, especially in software with extended support cycles, may be

 LTS versions receive updates and security patches for an extended period.

 Example: Version 4.0.0 LTS, indicating a long-term support release.

3. Alpha and Beta Releases:

 Alpha releases are early versions with incomplete features and likely unstable.

 Beta releases are more stable than alpha but may still have some bugs.

 Example: Version 2.5.0-alpha, signaling an alpha release for version 2.5.0.

4. Version Codenames:

 Some projects use codenames alongside version numbers, often thematic or

 Provides a memorable reference for specific releases.

 Example: Ubuntu's codename "Bionic Beaver" for version 18.04.

 Certain software, especially in the open-source community, follows a rolling release

 Constantly updated without distinct version numbers, as users receive the latest
features and fixes continuously.

 Example: Arch Linux, where the system is always up-to-date without the need for
specific version numbers.

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1. Numeric Sequences:

 Version numbers are typically represented as a sequence of numbers separated by

 Example: 1.2.3

2. Leading Zeros:

 Leading zeros are usually not significant in version numbers.

 1.01 is considered equivalent to 1.1.

3. Incrementing Rules:

 Major, minor, and patch numbers are incremented based on the type of changes
introduced.

 Example: Incrementing the minor version from 1.2.3 to 1.3.0 indicates the addition
of new features.

4. Compatibility Guidelines:

 Semantic versioning (SemVer) provides guidelines for version increments to

 Major version changes may indicate potential breaking changes.

5. Multiple Digits:

 Each segment of the version number can have multiple digits.

 Example: 2.10.5

6. Pre-release and Build Metadata:

 Pre-release identifiers (e.g., alpha, beta) and build metadata may follow the patch
version.

 Example: 1.2.3-beta1 or 1.2.3+build456.

7. Use of Symbols:
  Version numbers typically use only numeric digits and periods, avoiding other
symbols.

 Example: 3.0, not 3.0-alpha.

8. Backward Compatibility:

 Minor version increments generally signify backward compatibility.

 Users can update without expecting major disruptions to existing functionality.

9. Release Numbering Patterns:

 Some projects may have specific patterns in their version numbering.

 Example: Odd minor versions (1.3, 1.5) could indicate development or experimental
releases, while even minor versions (1.2, 1.4) represent stable releases.

10. Standardization:

 Industry standards or project-specific guidelines may influence version numbering.

 Example: Linux Kernel often follows a Major.Minor.Patch format.