Apache vs. Httpd — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman — Updated on September 28, 2023
Apache is a widely-used web server software, while httpd refers to the software's daemon or service, handling requests on the server.
Difference Between Apache and Httpd
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Apache and httpd represent interconnected components within web server technology. Apache, officially called the Apache HTTP Server, is renowned web server software developed by the Apache Software Foundation. It is designed to serve and facilitate HTTP web page requests between a web browser and a server. Apache's utility lies in its ability to efficiently deliver web content, provide security features, and support various modules for enhanced functionality.
Httpd, on the other hand, stands for HTTP Daemon, a program that runs in the background on a web server and waits for incoming server requests. Httpd is essentially the daemon or service that realizes the functionalities provided by Apache, handling the client requests and sending the responses in adherence to the HTTP protocol. It is integral to the operational processes of the Apache web server software, functioning to manage connections and direct traffic.
The Apache HTTP Server is characterized by its modular architecture, enabling the incorporation of a variety of features and functionalities through modules. Apache offers versatility, allowing developers to customize its operations according to their needs. It provides a scalable and reliable platform, which can be optimized for different environments, showcasing its adaptability to diverse web hosting requirements.
In essence, httpd acts as the backbone for the Apache server to communicate and interact with web browsers. It plays a crucial role in processing requests and delivering web pages to users’ browsers. Httpd operates silently in the background, diligently managing the intricate dialogues between servers and clients, thus facilitating smooth and efficient web experiences for users.
In conclusion, while Apache denotes the overarching web server software, httpd refers specifically to the background service or daemon within Apache that manages HTTP requests and responses. Understanding the distinction between Apache and httpd is crucial for comprehending the dynamics of web server operation and management.
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Comparison Chart
Definition
Web server software
Daemon or service in Apache
Functionality
Serves HTTP web page requests
Handles and processes HTTP requests
Context
Refers to the entire web server software
Specific component within Apache software
Operation
Provides various features & modules
Runs in the background to manage connections
Focus
Overall management & customization
Direct traffic and process requests
Compare with Definitions
Apache
Apache is widely-used open-source web server software.
Apache efficiently manages the delivery of web pages from the server to the user's browser.
Httpd
Httpd is the daemon or service in Apache that manages HTTP requests and responses.
Httpd operates unobtrusively, ensuring smooth interaction between the server and the client’s browser.
Apache
It’s renowned for its role in delivering web content and providing security.
Apache ensures a secure and robust platform for web hosting, protecting against potential vulnerabilities.
Httpd
Httpd is responsible for handling client requests and sending responses as per the HTTP protocol.
Every interaction between a web browser and a server is meticulously managed by httpd.
Apache
Apache serves as a software framework for scalable server-side software services.
The versatility of Apache allows it to accommodate a variety of server environments and configurations.
Httpd
It serves as the backbone for Apache to communicate and interact with web browsers.
Without httpd, Apache would be unable to fulfill its role in web page request and delivery processes.
Apache
Apache facilitates HTTP web page requests between a server and a web browser.
Through Apache, seamless communication between web browsers and servers is established, enhancing user experience.
Httpd
It’s a background-running program in a web server waiting for incoming server requests.
Httpd remains vigilant for any incoming requests, swiftly processing them to maintain seamless web navigation.
Apache
The Apache () are a group of culturally related Native American tribes in the Southwestern United States, which include the Chiricahua, Jicarilla, Lipan, Mescalero, Mimbreño, Ndendahe (Bedonkohe or Mogollon and Nednhi or Carrizaleño and Janero), Salinero, Plains (Kataka or Semat or "Kiowa-Apache") and Western Apache (Aravaipa, Pinaleño, Coyotero, Tonto). Distant cousins of the Apache are the Navajo, with whom they share the Southern Athabaskan languages.
Httpd
Httpd directs traffic and manages connections within the Apache web server software.
The efficient management and direction of traffic by httpd are crucial for optimal web server performance.
Apache
A member of a Native American people inhabiting the southwest United States and northern Mexico. Various Apache tribes offered strong resistance to encroachment on their territory in the latter half of the 19th century. Present-day Apache populations are located in Arizona, New Mexico, and Oklahoma.
Httpd
HTTPd is a software program that usually runs in the background, as a process, and plays the role of a server in a client-server model using the HTTP and/or HTTPS network protocol(s). The process waits for the incoming client requests and for each request it answers by replying with requested information, including the sending of the requested web resource, or with an HTTP error message.
Apache
Any of the Apachean languages of the Apache.
Apache
A member of the Parisian underworld.
Apache
Alternative case form of Apache, a Parisian gangster.
Apache
Any member of Athapaskan tribes that migrated to the southwestern desert (from Arizona to Texas and south into Mexico); fought a losing battle from 1861 to 1886 with the United States and were resettled in Oklahoma
Apache
A Parisian gangster
Apache
The language of the Apache people
Apache
Apache supports modular architecture for incorporating various features and functionalities.
The modular design of Apache enables developers to customize and extend its capabilities efficiently.
Common Curiosities
Can httpd operate independently of Apache?
Typically, no. Httpd is integral to Apache, designed to operate within its framework.
Does Apache offer security features for web hosting?
Yes, Apache provides numerous security features to safeguard web hosting environments.
Does httpd operate within Apache?
Yes, httpd is the daemon or service within Apache managing HTTP requests and responses.
Is Apache customizable for different server environments?
Absolutely, Apache’s modular architecture allows extensive customization for various environments.
Is Apache only used for serving HTTP requests?
While primarily used for HTTP, Apache can also serve other protocols with appropriate modules.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
