Spring 3.0 - Unable to locate Spring NamespaceHandler for XML schema namespace

java

spring-security

xml-configuration

maven-dependencies

byNikita Barsukov·Mar 7, 2025

To remedy this Spring Security namespace conundrum, add the spring-security-config dependency. Here's how it's done for Maven:

<dependency>
    <groupId>org.springframework.security</groupId>
    <artifactId>spring-security-config</artifactId>
    <version>3.0.1.RELEASE</version>
</dependency>

And for your Gradle folks:

implementation 'org.springframework.security:spring-security-config:3.0.1.RELEASE'

Remember to match 3.0.1.RELEASE with your Spring Framework version. This ushers in the needed XML support for your project.

Exhaustive dependency checklist

Keeping version alignment

Like the Avengers, your Spring Security artifacts need to align to save your application from runtime chaos. Make sure they all stand shoulder to shoulder, version-wise.

Double-checking XML configuration

Little typos in your applicationContext.xml can lead to big headaches. Double-check your XML syntax and make sure the security namespace is highlighted correctly.

<security:http ...> <!-- Once you secure, you never go back! -->
    ...
</security:http>

Security configuration segregation

We all love separation of concerns. Move your security configurations to a separate applicationContext-security.xml. It's like having a neat folder for your securities on the desktop, and it makes management a breeze.

Updating web.xml

Like updating your social media status, don't forget to update your web.xml as well. Make sure it refers to the security configuration from applicationContext-security.xml.

Remembering Maven Shade plugin

If your compiling with Maven Shade for an Uber-JAR, use the AppendingTransformer. That way, you're maintaining a tidy roster of spring.handlers and spring.schemas instead of bulldozing over them. It's like bringing people together rather than organizing a massacre (alias overwriting).

Deployment-time: Mind your classpath

Maven dependencies and you

During deployment from Eclipse or a similar IDE, double-check that your virtual "Maven Dependencies" are indeed hitching a ride to WEB-INF/lib. They have a tendency to sometimes miss the bus.

Deployment troubleshooting manual

If deployment woes continue, manually rope in the Spring Security JARs to WEB-INF/lib. Like inviting all your friends to a party personally, it assures they're there when the party (read deployment) begins.

Frequently faced snags

Classpath controversies

Even after adding required dependencies, if the issue persists, scan your classpath for saboteurs. Older versions of Spring libraries lurking in the shadows could stir up problems.

Debug with intent

When nothing else works, it's time to enable debug logging for Spring. Say hello to detailed logs of your application context initialization and meet your errors face to face.

Crowdsource your bugs

Lastly, remember: Many brains are better than one. The developer community is a well of knowledge; tap into it when you need help.

explain-codes / Java / Spring 3.0 - Unable to locate Spring NamespaceHandler for XML schema namespace [http://www.springframework.org/schema/security]

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