The Difference Between WebSphere Application Server and Web Server

When comparing a WebSphere Application Server and a Web Server, it's essential to understand their distinct roles in web application deployment.

Web Server

A Web Server primarily handles HTTP requests from clients, serving static content such as HTML files, images, and CSS. It acts as a gateway between the user's browser and the application.

WebSphere Application Server

On the other hand, a WebSphere Application Server is a middleware component that executes Java-based applications and serves dynamic content. It provides additional services such as transaction handling, security, scalability, and clustering for enterprise applications.

Key Differences

The focus keyword differentiating factor between the two is that while a Web Server handles static content and basic HTTP requests, a WebSphere Application Server processes dynamic content, runs application logic, and supports more complex enterprise applications.

In conclusion, understanding the distinction between a WebSphere Application Server and a Web Server is crucial for effectively designing and deploying web applications to meet specific requirements.