If you are developing a website or web application, and you came across Apache HTTP Server and Apache Tomcat, you might be asking yourself the following questions:
“Are they both from Apache? Are they not more or less identical?” The simple answer is, No.
Even if they carry the same name, they have completely different functionalities. Choosing the wrong one could cause severe issues, frustration, subpar results, or unwarranted complications.
Let me explain it with simple words and practical tips, so you are able to make an informed decision on which option suits your project best.
So, What Is HTTP Server (httpd)?
Apache HTTP Server, or httpd, is the prototypical web server. It has existed since the 90s, and is still among the most preferred methods of serving sites.
What It Does Best:
- Serves static content: HTML, CSS, images, JavaScript
- Runs dynamic content via plugins (like PHP, Python)
- Hosts sites built with WordPress, Joomla, Drupal
- Handles redirects, caching, SSL, URL rewriting
If you’ve ever built a regular website without Java, this is probably what you’ve used.
Real-World Example:
Hosting a personal blog? Business site? Online portfolio?
Apache HTTP Server is your guy.
And What About Apache Tomcat?
Apache Tomcat is a totally different beast. It’s not just a web server—it’s a Java servlet container.
What It’s Built For:
- Running Java-based web applications
- Handling Servlets, JavaServer Pages (JSP), and Spring MVC
- Creating REST APIs and enterprise backend systems
If your code is written in Java and you need to run Java logic on the server (not just serve files), then Tomcat is what you need.
Real-World Example:
Building an enterprise app, online banking platform, or backend API using Java?
Tomcat’s your best friend.
Side-by-Side Comparison: Apache HTTP Server vs Tomcat
| Feature | Apache HTTP Server | Apache Tomcat |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Role | Static/dynamic web content | Java web apps |
| Programming Language | Language-agnostic | Java only |
| Supports PHP, Python, etc. | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Supports Servlets/JSP | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Speed for static files | Very fast | Slower than httpd |
| Learning curve | Easier | Requires Java knowledge |
| Best For | Blogs, CMS, websites | Java apps, APIs |
| Community support | Massive | Specialized but strong |
Do I Have to Pick Just One?
Not necessarily.
In fact, many businesses use them together.
Here’s how:
- Apache HTTP Server handles static content, SSL, and caching
- It passes dynamic Java requests to Tomcat behind the scenes
This is known as a reverse proxy setup, and it’s common in enterprise environments. It gives you the best of both worlds: speed, flexibility, and power.
Choosing Between Them (Made Simple)
Here’s a super clear way to figure it out:
| Scenario | Use This |
|---|---|
| You want to host a WordPress blog | Apache HTTP Server |
| You’re building an e-commerce site with PHP | Apache HTTP Server |
| You’re developing a Java Spring Boot application | Apache Tomcat |
| You need to run Java Servlets or JSP pages | Apache Tomcat |
| You want both speed + Java capability | Use Both Together |
Still unsure? Go with Apache HTTP Server if your tech stack isn’t Java. It’s easier to set up and supports more general web tools out of the box.
What If I’m Using a Java Framework Like Spring Boot?
You can run Spring Boot Apps because they come with embedded Tomcat. There’s no need to install Tomcat separately. But during production, you may want an HTTP Server or Nginx in front of it to handle SSL, redirects, or load balance.
Which One Performs Better?
It depends on the job.
- For serving images, CSS, HTML? 👉 Apache HTTP Server is lightning fast.
- For Java logic, dynamic APIs, and JSP rendering? 👉 Tomcat wins every time.
- For hybrid sites (Java + static)? 👉 Combine them.
Performance is about using the right tool for the right task.
Need Alternatives? Here’s What You Should Know
| Need | Consider This |
|---|---|
| Super lightweight static server | Nginx or Caddy |
| Full Java EE (Jakarta EE) server | WildFly, GlassFish |
| All-in-one app hosting | Spring Boot with embedded Tomcat |
| Reverse proxy/load balancer | Nginx or Apache HTTP with mod_proxy |
FAQs: People Also Ask
1. Can Apache Tomcat host HTML and CSS files?
Yes—but it’s not optimized for it. For static content, Apache HTTP Server or Nginx will be faster and more efficient.
2. Is Tomcat a full web server like Apache HTTP Server?
Not exactly. It’s a Java application server meant to handle dynamic content generated by Java, not just serve static files.
3. Can I use Tomcat to run PHP apps?
No. Tomcat is not designed for PHP. Use Apache HTTP Server or Nginx instead.
4. Which one is easier to set up for beginners?
Apache HTTP Server is simpler, especially for standard websites. Tomcat requires some Java knowledge and configuration.
5. Is it possible to use both at the same time?
Absolutely! That’s a very common setup for Java-based websites that also need to serve fast static content or handle SSL.
Final Thoughts: Use the Right Tool for the Right Job
Here’s the bottom line:
- If you’re not working in Java, don’t overcomplicate it—go with Apache HTTP Server
- If your web app is Java-based, Tomcat is the natural fit
- And if your app mixes both? Combine them for best results
Choosing the right server setup can save you time, boost performance, and make maintenance easier in the long run.