REGEXVAULTv2.0
Dev & Systems/SemVer
Verified Safe

SemVer Build Metadata Identifier Regex for Java

/^[a-zA-Z0-9\-]+(?:\.[a-zA-Z0-9\-]+)*$/

What this pattern does

This page provides a well-structured, multi-part regular expression for matching semver build metadata identifier, ported and verified for Java. A rigorously tested regex reduces debugging time and protects your application from edge-case failures. The snippet below is ready to drop into your Java project — whether you're validating in a Spring Boot controller, a Jakarta EE service, or a standalone utility class.

Java Implementation

Java
// SemVer Build Metadata Identifier
// ReDoS-safe | RegexVault — Dev & Systems > SemVer

import java.util.regex.Pattern;

public class SemverBuildMetadataIdentifierValidator {
    private static final Pattern PATTERN =
        Pattern.compile("^[a-zA-Z0-9\\-]+(?:\\.[a-zA-Z0-9\\-]+)*$");

    public static boolean validate(String input) {
        return PATTERN.matcher(input).matches();
    }

    // Example
    public static void main(String[] args) {
        System.out.println(validate("001")); // true
    }
}

Test Cases

Matches (Valid)
Rejects (Invalid)
001+build
20130313144700build.
exp.sha.5114f85.build
sha.abc123build..meta
build.42sha_256

When to use this pattern

This pattern is drawn from the Dev & Systems > SemVer category and carries a ReDoS-safe certification. That matters for Java developers because critical in Java applications since the JVM regex engine uses backtracking and is susceptible to ReDoS without careful pattern design. RegexVault audits patterns against known backtracking attack vectors, ensuring you have the necessary context before using this regex in a high-stakes production environment.

Common Pitfalls

Unlike pre-release identifiers, build metadata does NOT affect precedence. Two versions differing only in build metadata are equal for ordering.

Technical Notes

Build metadata is ignored in version precedence comparisons. Common uses: commit SHA, build timestamp, CI run number.

Have a pattern that belongs in the vault?

Submit it for review — community-verified patterns get credited to your GitHub handle. Free submissions join the queue. Priority review available for $15.

Submit a Pattern