Application Server
An application server is a software framework that provides an environment for running and managing web applications, enterprise applications, or services. It handles business logic, data processing, and communication between clients and backend systems, often including features like transaction management, security, and scalability. Common examples include Apache Tomcat, JBoss/WildFly, and Microsoft IIS.
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. It is essential for Java EE (Jakarta EE) applications, .NET applications on Windows servers, and any system needing centralized management of business logic and integration with databases or messaging systems.