What happens inside Spring ApplicationContext refresh() lifecycle?
Updated May 17, 2026
Short answer
refresh() initializes the entire Spring container including bean definitions, post processors, and singleton beans.
Deep explanation
The refresh process includes: preparing environment, loading BeanDefinitions, invoking BeanFactoryPostProcessors, registering BeanPostProcessors, initializing singleton beans, starting embedded servers, and publishing application events. Each phase is extensible and heavily used by Spring Boot auto-configuration.
Unlock with a Pro subscription to view this section.
View pricingReal-world example
No real-world example available yet.
Unlock with a Pro subscription to view this section.
Upgrade to ProCommon mistakes
No common mistakes listed yet.
Unlock with a Pro subscription to view this section.
Upgrade to ProFollow-up questions
No follow-up questions available yet.
Unlock with a Pro subscription to view this section.
Upgrade to Pro