Forge vs Connect in 2025: Which Platform Should You Build On?

The Platform Decision

Choosing between Forge and Connect is one of the most consequential decisions for Jira app developers. This analysis provides a framework for making that choice.

Platform Overview

Forge: Atlassian's hosted app platform with built-in security, no infrastructure management, and sandboxed execution.

Connect: Self-hosted platform with full backend flexibility, external infrastructure requirements, and broader API access.

Forge Advantages

Security & Compliance

• Runs in Atlassian's infrastructure
• Built-in data residency compliance
• No OAuth token management
• Enterprise customers prefer Forge apps

Development Speed

• No infrastructure to manage
• Built-in tunneling for development
• Simpler deployment pipeline
• Lower operational costs

Marketplace Priority

• Atlassian promotes Forge apps in search
• Future features will be Forge-first
• Better integration with native UI

Connect Advantages

Technical Flexibility

• Use any backend language/framework
• Direct database access
• Complex integrations possible
• Full control over architecture

Existing Patterns

• Mature ecosystem and libraries
• More documentation and examples
• Easier migration from Server apps

Specific Use Cases

• Heavy computational workloads
• External system integrations
• Custom authentication needs
• Real-time websocket requirements

Decision Framework

Choose Forge if:

• Building a new app from scratch
• Primary users are enterprise customers
• Simple to moderate complexity
• Want lower operational overhead
• Data residency is important

Choose Connect if:

• Migrating existing Server/DC app
• Complex backend requirements
• Heavy external integrations
• Need specific technical capabilities Forge lacks

The Hybrid Approach

Increasingly, developers use both:

• Forge for user-facing UI components
• Connect for complex backend processing

This captures benefits of both platforms while managing tradeoffs.

Migration Considerations

If you have a Connect app:

• Evaluate if Forge meets your technical needs
• Plan gradual migration, not big-bang
• Consider hybrid as intermediate step
• Timeline: Start planning now for 2026 completion

For more strategic guidance, see our blue ocean opportunities and understand what makes apps succeed.