Apache vs. Tomcat — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman & Fiza Rafique — Updated on May 14, 2024
Apache is a general web server handling static files and secure HTTP connections, while Tomcat is an application server that executes Java servlets and renders web pages containing Java Server Page coding.
Difference Between Apache and Tomcat
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Apache is a widely used web server designed to handle static content and manage secure communication over the internet. On the other hand, Tomcat serves as an application server specifically tailored for Java environments, executing Java Servlets and JSPs (Java Server Pages).
Apache excels in serving static content directly to a client without needing to execute code on the server. Whereas, Tomcat is built to dynamically generate content by executing server-side Java, making it ideal for interactive applications.
Apache can be integrated with Tomcat using the Apache JServ Protocol, allowing Apache to serve static content while Tomcat handles dynamic content. This combination optimizes performance by utilizing each server for what it does best.
While Apache does not natively support Java applications, it can serve a broader range of technologies and is often used in conjunction with other programming languages. In contrast, Tomcat is highly optimized for Java environments, supporting various Java EE specifications like Java Servlet, JSP, EL, and WebSocket.
Apache is known for its robust security features and efficient performance when dealing with high traffic on static websites. On the other hand, Tomcat often requires additional configuration for security and scalability but excels in environments where dynamic content is crucial.
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Comparison Chart
Primary Function
Web server
Application server
Language Support
Various, including PHP, Perl
Java
Content Type
Static files
Dynamic content (Java Servlets, JSPs)
Protocol Support
HTTP, HTTPS
HTTP, HTTPS, AJP
Typical Use Case
Serving static websites
Running Java applications
Compare with Definitions
Apache
Highly configurable and suitable for static content.
Apache is often used for serving high traffic websites.
Tomcat
Supports Java EE specifications such as Servlet, JSP, Java EL, and WebSocket.
Tomcat can manage complex Java-based web services.
Apache
Open source and maintained by an open community.
Apache is developed and maintained by the Apache Software Foundation.
Tomcat
Provides a "pure Java" HTTP web server environment for Java code to run.
Tomcat enhances web applications with increased performance and flexibility.
Apache
Uses a modular architecture that allows for extending its capabilities.
Apache can be customized with various modules like mod_ssl for security.
Tomcat
Can integrate with Apache for optimal performance with static and dynamic content.
Integrating Tomcat with Apache optimizes resource utilization.
Apache
A software that serves web pages as a server.
Apache handles HTML files efficiently.
Tomcat
Often used in conjunction with or as an alternative to other Java EE application servers.
Tomcat serves as a lighter, more specific solution compared to comprehensive Java EE servers.
Apache
Can run on almost all operating systems including Windows, macOS, and Linux.
Apache is compatible with multiple hardware and software environments.
Tomcat
An application server used to execute Java servlets and render web pages that include JSP coding.
Tomcat is essential for web applications that require dynamic content.
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.
Tomcat
A male cat.
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.
Tomcat
To be sexually active with more than one partner. Used of men.
Apache
Any of the Apachean languages of the Apache.
Tomcat
A tom, an intact male cat.
Apache
A member of the Parisian underworld.
Tomcat
To prowl for sexual gratification.
Apache
Alternative case form of Apache, a Parisian gangster.
Tomcat
A male cat, especially when full grown or of large size.
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
Tomcat
Male cat
Apache
A Parisian gangster
Apache
The language of the Apache people
Common Curiosities
Can Apache and Tomcat be used together?
Yes, they can be integrated to utilize Apache for serving static content and Tomcat for dynamic content.
What type of content does Tomcat serve best?
Tomcat is best for dynamic content, especially Java servlets and JSPs.
Which server is better for static websites?
Apache is better suited for static content due to its efficient handling of static files.
What is the main difference between Apache and Tomcat?
Apache is a web server optimized for serving static content, while Tomcat is an application server focused on serving Java applications.
What is AJP in relation to Tomcat?
AJP (Apache JServ Protocol) is a protocol that allows Apache to communicate efficiently with Tomcat.
Can Tomcat run PHP applications?
No, Tomcat is specifically designed for Java applications, not PHP.
Which is more suitable for large-scale deployments?
Apache is typically more suitable for large-scale deployments of static content, while Tomcat is used for specific, scalable Java applications.
Is Tomcat compatible with non-Java programming languages?
No, Tomcat is specifically designed for Java environments.
How does Tomcat handle web page rendering?
Tomcat dynamically generates web pages using Java Servlets and JSPs.
How do I integrate Apache with Tomcat?
Integration can be achieved using connectors like mod_jk or mod_proxy_ajp.
What are the security features of Apache?
Apache includes robust security modules like mod_ssl and mod_security.
Which is easier to set up for a beginner?
Apache might be easier to set up due to its widespread use and extensive documentation.
What operating systems does Apache support?
Apache can run on virtually all major operating systems, including Linux, Windows, and macOS.
Does Tomcat support HTTPS?
Yes, Tomcat supports HTTPS for secure communication.
Which server is more flexible in terms of technology support?
Apache is more flexible as it supports a wide range of programming languages and technologies.
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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.
Co-written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
