Application Server vs Web Server

Developers should use an application server when building scalable, enterprise-grade applications that require robust middleware services such as load balancing, clustering, and distributed transaction support meets developers should learn and use web servers to deploy and host web applications, ensuring reliable and scalable delivery of content to users. Here's our take.

Application Server

Nice Pick

Developers should use an application server when building scalable, enterprise-grade applications that require robust middleware services such as load balancing, clustering, and distributed transaction support

Pros

• It is essential for Java EE (Jakarta EE) applications,
• Related to: java-ee, servlets

Cons

• Specific tradeoffs depend on your use case

Web Server

Developers should learn and use web servers to deploy and host web applications, ensuring reliable and scalable delivery of content to users

Pros

• It is essential for building production-ready websites, APIs, and services, as it handles critical tasks like load balancing, SSL/TLS encryption, and caching
• Related to: http-protocol, nginx

Cons

• Specific tradeoffs depend on your use case

The Verdict

These tools serve different purposes. Application Server is a platform while Web Server is a tool. We picked Application Server based on overall popularity, but your choice depends on what you're building.

The Bottom Line

Application Server wins

Based on overall popularity. Application Server is more widely used, but Web Server excels in its own space.