Overview
When a new Node.js security vulnerability is announced, customers using Twilio Functions often want to know if their deployed Functions are protected and when patches will be applied. This article explains how Node.js runtime updates are managed for Twilio Functions, especially in the context of critical security releases.
Product
Twilio Functions
Environment
Twilio Console
What You Need to Know
Key Points
- Twilio Functions Node.js Runtime: Twilio Functions uses AWS Lambda as its underlying compute platform. The Node.js runtime for Functions is based on AWS Lambda’s implementation, which is not identical to the official Node.js release.
- AWS Lambda Runtime Management: AWS maintains its own version of the Node.js runtime and applies security patches independently of the official Node.js release schedule.
- Automatic Updates (Auto Mode): AWS Lambda runtimes are ephemeral and are updated automatically in “auto mode.” This means that when AWS releases a new, secure runtime version, Twilio Functions will automatically adopt it without manual intervention.
- Two-Phase Rollout: AWS uses a two-phase rollout process for runtime updates, ensuring that all Lambda functions are eventually updated to the latest secure version.
- No Direct Control Over Update Timing: Twilio does not control the exact timing of these updates. The adoption of security patches depends on AWS’s release schedule and rollout process.
What You Should Do?
- Stay Informed: Twilio monitors AWS Lambda runtime updates and will communicate with customers if a critical security patch is applied or if action is required.
- Check Your Runtime Version: You can check which Node.js version your Twilio Functions service is currently running by following this guide.
- No Manual Updates Needed: There is no need for customers to manually update the Node.js runtime for Twilio Functions. Updates are handled automatically by AWS.
Example Scenario
A security vulnerability is announced for Node.js 22 and 24. Twilio customers ask if their Functions are patched:
- Twilio escalates the inquiry to engineering.
- Engineering confirms that Twilio Functions will receive the patched runtime once AWS releases and rolls out the update.
- Customers are notified once the update is confirmed.
Conclusion
Twilio Functions customers benefit from AWS Lambda’s managed runtime environment, which ensures that Node.js security patches are applied automatically. While Twilio does not control the exact timing, customers can be confident that their Functions will be updated as soon as AWS releases the patched runtime.
Below you will find references to useful documents: