Understanding Apache Tomcat Server

Jul 12, 2024

Lecture Notes: Understanding Apache Tomcat Server

Overview

  • Apache Tomcat: A widely-used Java servlet container that supports Java Server Pages (JSP), Java Expression Language, WebSocket, and Java Servlets.
  • Popularity: Adopted by 48% of developers in 2022. Open source and free.
  • Development: Originally created by Sun Microsystems; now an Apache Software Foundation project.
  • Current Version: Apache Tomcat 10.0.x

Agenda

  1. What is Apache Tomcat?
  2. What kind of server is Apache Tomcat?
  3. Advantages of Tomcat
  4. Disadvantages of Tomcat
  5. Tomcat vs. Other Servers
  6. Conclusion

What is Apache Tomcat?

  • Full Name: Apache Tomcat
  • Initial Release: 1998
  • Use: Open source web server and Java servlet container
  • History:
    • Developed by Sun Microsystems
    • Donated to Apache Software Foundation
    • Top-level Apache project since 2005
  • Technologies Supported:
    • Java Servlets
    • Java Server Pages
    • Java Expression Language
    • Java WebSocket

Types of Application Servers Supported by Java Ecosystem

  • Servlet Container: Hosts Java servlets (e.g., Apache Tomcat)
  • Java Enterprise Application Server: Java specification implementation
  • Web Server: Serves files (e.g., Apache HTTP Server)

Advantages of Apache Tomcat

  • Open Source and Free: Download, install, and use without cost
  • Lightweight: Quick startup and short redeploy times
  • Adaptability: Highly customizable due to its open-source nature
  • Stability: Runs independently of Apache system, ensuring stability even in case of failure
  • Documentation: Excellent official documentation and numerous online tutorials
  • Security: Secondary firewalls can be used for enhanced security
  • Mature: Over 20 years old; frequently updated and maintained by the community

Disadvantages of Apache Tomcat

  • Static Pages: Not as quick as Apache HTTP Server
  • Flaws: Includes memory leaks, problematic SSL setups, and log management
  • User Interface: Poor and rudimentary

Tomcat vs. Other Servers

Jetty

  • Tomcat:
    • Higher market share
    • Up-to-date specifications
    • Well-documented
    • Embeddable
  • Jetty:
    • Prioritizes user needs
    • Small memory footprint
    • Embeddable

WebLogic (Oracle)

  • Benefits:
    • Enables distributed transactions
    • Supports Enterprise JavaBeans (EJB)
    • Advanced administration console
    • Requires a commercial license
  • Comparison:
    • Tomcat lacks many advanced features present in WebLogic

Conclusion

  • Decision Making: Choosing the right server depends on application requirements
  • Recommendation: Start with Tomcat to gauge if it meets your needs; consider other servers like Jetty for specific functionalities