Difference Between Web server and Application server

A server is a central repository where information and computer programs are held and accessed by the programmer within the network. Web servers and Application servers are kinds of servers employed to deliver sites and therefore the latter deals with application operations performed between users and back-end business applications of the organization. 

What is a Web Server?

A Web Server is a computer program or device that serves web content, primarily hosting websites and handling HTTP requests from clients (usually web browsers). It accepts requests for data and sends the specified documents, primarily static content such as HTML, CSS, and images. However, web servers can also handle dynamic content by interacting with server-side scripts.

Example of Web Servers:

• Apache HTTP Server
• Nginx
• Microsoft IIS
• Resin

What is an Application Server?

An Application Server provides a more comprehensive environment for running enterprise applications. It includes both a web container and an EJB (Enterprise JavaBeans) container, supporting a wide range of applications, including dynamic content and complex business operations. Application servers handle not just HTTP, but also other protocols like RMI (Remote Method Invocation) and RPC (Remote Procedure Calls), making them suitable for hosting both the logic and user interface of applications.

Examples of Application Server:

• WebLogic
• JBoss
• WebSphere
• GlassFish

Differences Between Web Servers and Application Servers

Web Servers and Application Servers serve distinct purposes in the architecture of web and enterprise applications. Web servers are ideal for serving static content and simple web applications with minimal resource consumption, while application servers offer a more robust environment for enterprise-level applications that require complex processing, transaction management, and high fault tolerance.