Salesforce is replacing legacy Connected Apps with a new framework called External Client Apps. Starting in Spring '26, you cannot create new legacy apps. This change improves security by separating app settings from security rules. You must migrate your existing integrations to this new model to keep your business data safe and compliant.
Key takeaways
- Salesforce will restrict the creation of new legacy Connected Apps starting in the Spring '26 release.
- The new External Client App framework uses three separate files to manage identity, settings, and security policies.
- Migrating reduces technical debt by removing old, unused integrations that create security risks.
- The new model supports OAuth 2.1, which is a modern set of rules for secure data sharing, to better protect your company.
- A four-phase roadmap involving audits and sandbox testing ensures your business avoids downtime during the transition.
Your business relies on Salesforce talking to other tools like your accounting software or marketing platforms. Salesforce is changing how these systems connect. The old way, called Connected Apps, is retiring.
The Spring '26 deadline is approaching. You need to move to the new External Client App (ECA) model. This change keeps your customer data safe and your systems running without interruption.
Keep Your Data Secure with Modern Standards
Legacy apps often mix security rules with how the app works. This makes it hard for your security team to update rules without breaking the connection. The new ECA model separates these parts into three files.
- The Header File: This identifies the app.
- The Settings File: This contains the developer's technical setup.
- The Policies File: This allows your administrators to control who can access the app and when.
"The transition to External Client Apps is not just an upgrade; it is a fundamental re-engineering of how Salesforce interacts with the outside world. Businesses that fail to audit their legacy integrations by Spring '26 risk significant operational downtime."
Now, your administrators can set security policies without touching the code. This uses OAuth 2.1, a modern security standard. It protects your business from common digital attacks like authorization code injection.
Avoid Business Disruptions and Technical Debt
If you wait until Spring '26, you might face a rush that breaks your systems. You will not be able to create new integrations using the old method. This could delay new projects or stop your sales team from getting the data they need.
A planned migration helps your business in three ways. First, it removes old, unused connections that create security gaps. Second, it ensures your team is ready for new projects after the deadline. Third, it simplifies your system by using modern components that are easier to move between different Salesforce environments.
A Clear Path to a Secure Transition
You can move to the new framework without stopping your daily work. We recommend a four-phase approach to keep your operations steady. This process ensures your data remains accurate and your integrations stay active.
- Audit your systems: List every tool currently connected to your Salesforce org.
- Map the new setup: Plan how each old connection will work in the new ECA framework.
- Test in a sandbox: Try the new connections in a safe test environment first to catch errors.
- Deploy in waves: Move your integrations to the live system one at a time, starting with the least critical tools.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a Connected App and an External Client App?
Connected Apps are the old way to link Salesforce to other software. External Client Apps are the new version. The new version separates security rules from the app's functions. This makes it easier for your IT team to manage access and keep data safe without needing to rewrite code.
When is the deadline for the migration?
The deadline starts with the Spring '26 release. After this date, you cannot create new legacy Connected Apps. You should finish your migration before this time. This prevents delays when you need to add new tools or update your current integrations.
Will my current integrations stop working in Spring '26?
Your existing connections will not break immediately. However, you will lose the ability to create new ones or make major changes to legacy apps. Migrating now ensures your business stays compliant and can use the latest security updates provided by Salesforce.
CodeSierra helps businesses move to the new Salesforce integration framework. Our team includes certified architects who use fixed-scope pricing to ensure your project stays on budget. We audit your current tools and manage the move to keep your data secure.
Ready to get started? Contact us for a free consultation.Source: This article was curated from Sikich and enriched with expert insights from CodeSierra Tech Private Limited.