Servlet vs. JSP in Java EE Applications

When it comes to building Java EE applications, servlets and JSP (JavaServer Pages) are both integral parts of the development process. While both are used to create dynamic web content, there are key differences between them.

Servlet

A servlet is a Java class that extends the capabilities of servers that host applications. Servlets run on the server-side and handle client requests. They can dynamically generate web pages, process form data, manage sessions, and interact with databases.

JSP (JavaServer Pages)

JSP is a technology that allows developers to create dynamic web pages using HTML and Java code. JSP pages are compiled into servlets before being executed, making them easier to write and maintain for developers who are more comfortable with HTML.

Main Differences

• Servelets are Java classes specifically designed to handle request/response operations on the server, while JSP is a technology that mixes HTML and Java code for dynamic content generation.
• Servlets are more suited for complex server-side logic and business operations, while JSP is ideal for UI presentation and quick development.
• Servlets can be more powerful and flexible in handling complex tasks, but may require more coding compared to JSP's simplicity in layout.
• Servlets are compiled before execution, while JSP pages are compiled into servlets at runtime.

Overall, understanding the differences between servlets and JSP is crucial for Java EE application developers to choose the appropriate technology based on the specific requirements of the project.