Apache Struts vs Apache Tomcat: What are the differences?
Introduction
Apache Struts and Apache Tomcat are both popular open-source web application frameworks used for developing Java applications. While they have similarities, they also have key differences that set them apart.
1. Application Type:
Apache Struts is a comprehensive Model-View-Controller (MVC) framework that provides a structure for developing enterprise-level Java web applications. It focuses on managing the application's flow and handles request processing, data validation, and form handling. On the other hand, Apache Tomcat is a pure servlet container that provides a runtime environment for executing Java Servlets and JavaServer Pages (JSPs) but does not provide a complete MVC framework.
2. Functionality:
Apache Struts offers several built-in components and features that simplify the development process, including tag libraries, form validation, and built-in support for internationalization. It provides support for managing complex business logic and automating common tasks. In contrast, Apache Tomcat mainly focuses on serving servlets and JSPs and does not offer the same level of built-in functionality as Apache Struts.
3. Ease of Use:
Apache Struts provides a more structured and opinionated approach to application development, which may be beneficial for large-scale projects with complex requirements. However, this structure can also make it more challenging for beginners to learn and use. On the other hand, Apache Tomcat is relatively easier to set up and use, making it more suitable for simple applications or projects where flexibility is crucial.
4. Community and Support:
Apache Struts has a larger and more mature community compared to Apache Tomcat. It has been around for a longer time and has a wide range of resources, documentation, and third-party libraries available. This rich community ensures continuous improvement, updates, and support for the framework. In contrast, while Apache Tomcat also has a strong community, it may not have the same level of resources and support as Apache Struts.
5. Security:
Apache Struts has had a history of security vulnerabilities, including high-profile incidents such as the Equifax data breach in 2017. However, the community has been actively addressing these issues, and newer versions have implemented significant security enhancements. Apache Tomcat, on the other hand, is widely known for its robust security features and undergoes regular updates, making it a secure choice for hosting servlets and JSPs.
6. Extensibility:
Apache Struts offers a higher level of extensibility, allowing developers to customize and extend the framework's functionality to fit their specific needs. It provides various extension points, making it more suitable for complex enterprise applications. On the other hand, Apache Tomcat, being a servlet container, has a more limited scope for customization but still supports certain extensions and plugins.
In Summary, Apache Struts is a comprehensive MVC framework for enterprise-level web applications, while Apache Tomcat is a servlet container focused on serving servlets and JSPs. Struts offers built-in components, extensive functionality, and extensibility, but requires a steeper learning curve. Tomcat is easier to set up and use, has a strong security reputation, and is suitable for simpler applications or projects requiring flexibility.
