Apex Journal

1GP (First-Generation Managed Packages) VS 2GP (Second-Generation Managed Packages)

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by

Divaker Singh
in

1. Development Model

  • 1GP (First-Generation Managed Package):
  • Metadata-based: Code and metadata are developed in a single Salesforce org (Developer Edition or Partner Developer Edition). The org acts as the source of truth for the package.
  • Org-bound: The development happens directly in a developer org, and version control is managed within that org.
  • Less Modular: Changes to the package typically require deploying updates to the entire package, and it lacks the flexibility that modern development workflows demand.
  • 2GP (Second-Generation Managed Package):
  • Source-based: Development is done using a version control system (like Git), with source code stored outside of Salesforce. This aligns better with modern software development practices.
  • Scratch Org Development: Developers use scratch orgs, which are temporary Salesforce orgs used for development and testing, providing a more flexible and modular way of developing code.
  • Modular and CI-friendly: 2GP allows for more modularity and easier integration with continuous integration (CI) and continuous deployment (CD) pipelines.

2. Version Control

  • 1GP:
  • No native support for version control integration. The Developer Edition org or packaging org serves as the source of truth for the package code and metadata. Any changes are made directly in the packaging org.
  • 2GP:
  • Version control is central to the 2GP development process. The package source lives in a version control system (e.g., Git), which means you can track changes, manage branches, and collaborate with other developers more efficiently.

3. Package Creation & Deployment

  • 1GP:
  • Packages are created and managed through the Salesforce org (via Setup). The packaging process is tightly coupled with the org, making it more challenging to manage complex development workflows.
  • Deployment of new versions can be slower, and the entire package must be updated even for minor changes.
  • 2GP:
  • Packages are created via the Salesforce CLI (Command Line Interface) and Salesforce DX. This gives developers more control and flexibility when building and releasing packages.
  • It allows for managed dependencies, meaning you can create modular packages that depend on other packages without duplicating code.
  • Namespace Reuse: In 2GP, different packages can share the same namespace, allowing for more flexibility in managing dependencies and evolving the package.

4. Versioning and Upgrading

  • 1GP:
  • Each version of the package must be fully deployed, and upgrading can be more complex, often requiring manual steps. It is difficult to rollback to previous versions once a new version is installed.
  • The package versions are closely tied to the packaging org, making it less flexible when rolling out updates.
  • 2GP:
  • 2GP provides a more flexible versioning system. You can maintain multiple versions and upgrade/downgrade packages more easily. This supports a smoother and more reliable process for delivering updates to customers.
  • Patch and Major Releases: 2GP offers a clearer distinction between patch versions and major releases, making it easier to manage the lifecycle of the package.

5. Dependencies and Modularization

  • 1GP:
  • Limited support for modularization. Packages cannot have direct dependencies on other managed packages.
  • All components of the package must be self-contained.
  • 2GP:
  • Managed Dependencies: 2GP introduces the ability to define dependencies between packages, which means you can create modular packages that reference each other.
  • This supports a more microservice-like architecture where different packages can interact and depend on one another.

6. Metadata Flexibility

  • 1GP:
  • Metadata within the package is relatively rigid, and changes can be difficult to make once a package is released.
  • Unlocked and flexible access to package contents is not possible in 1GP.
  • 2GP:
  • Metadata is more flexible in 2GP, making it easier to maintain and update the package. You can decide whether to allow certain types of metadata (like classes, objects) to be locked or unlocked for modifications after the package is released.

7. Control and Security

  • 1GP:
  • The managed package controls its namespace and metadata access tightly, and once released, making changes can be more restrictive.
  • 2GP:
  • Offers greater control over who can access and modify package components. It provides more granular control for both package developers and customers. Additionally, you can choose to have some components unlocked for easier updates.

8. Use Cases

  • 1GP:
  • Suited for older apps and packages that were built before the introduction of Salesforce DX and modern development workflows.
  • Ideal for simpler or legacy solutions that do not require modular or scalable architecture.
  • 2GP:
  • Designed for modern development workflows, 2GP is a better fit for organizations that follow agile methodologies, use version control, and have automated CI/CD pipelines.
  • Recommended for complex, modular applications, ISVs, and teams that need flexibility in managing package dependencies and updates.

Summary of Differences

Conclusion

2GP represents a significant improvement over 1GP, especially for teams that need modern development workflows, modularity, and version control. While 1GP is still in use, most new projects are better suited for 2GP due to its flexibility, efficiency, and alignment with industry best practices.

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