Overview
Are you thinking of launching a new app or website but feel confused by the technical setup? Don’t worry, you are not alone. Whether you are a beginner or a fresher in software development or someone non-technical who is dealing with a dev team for the first time, you have probably been told that you’ll need a server. But here’s the catch: what kind of server do you prefer? How many types of servers? Are all servers the same?
Servers come in various types, each serving a unique purpose in the application development and deployment process. There are two common types of services in the tech world. Web Server vs App Server. They both work and handle different parts of the system, and both support the functionality of your software.
So, what’s the real difference?
In general, a server is a digital system that helps store and manage data, making it available to other devices (called clients) on a network. Web servers and application servers are part of the server, but they function differently. A web server delivers website pages or content to users, while an application server handles the logic, processing, and tasks required to run the actual application.
Let’s break it down in an easy way and understand when and why you would use each.
What is a Web Server?
A web server refers to a computer system that stores website pages and sends them to your browser when you visit a website. A web server has its own special set of rules or protocols called HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol), to understand and respond to your requests. Whenever you visit a website or click on a link, the web server is working behind the scenes to deliver that content to you.
Let’s take an example: you go to a restaurant, check the menu, place an order with the waiter, and wait for your food. The waiter listens to your request, brings your food, and gives it to you. That’s how a web server works with websites. In this example, the web server is a waiter.
A web server’s main job is to deliver web pages to your browser. When you type a website address (such as www.google.com or https://sgvsofttech.com) and press Enter, your computer sends a request to the web server. The web server then sends the website files (HTML, CSS, images, etc.) back to your browser, allowing you to view the page.
Key Features of a Web Server:
1. Delivers Web Pages
A web server’s primary function is to deliver website pages or content (text, images, video) to your device when you open a website.
2. Uses HTTP Rules
Web servers follow a special set of rules called HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol) to understand your request and respond with the right web page.
3. Always On
Web servers operate 24/7, allowing users to access websites at any time, from anywhere in the world.
4. Keeps Websites Safe
Web servers follow HTTP Rules that help to protect websites from hackers and stop cybercrime activities.
What Is an Application Server?
An Application Server refers to a software platform or framework that provides an environment for running and managing applications. It serves as a bridge between users and clients and the backend systems or databases. The primary function of an application server is to host and manage applications and deliver them to clients over a network.
Let’s revisit the example: an application server plays the role of a chef in the kitchen. While a web server is akin to a server that delivers food (web pages), the application server is responsible for the cooking, which involves processing and managing complex logic and generating content dynamically.
An Application Server works like middleware, enabling communication between various parts of an application, such as web servers and databases.
Key Features of an Application Server:
1. Run Logics:
The application server’s primary role is to handle essential tasks, such as logging in and processing payments.
2. Connects to the Database
The Application Server helps connect your application to the Database and save information. Similarly, when you change your profile photo, the server ensures it’s saved.
3. Keeps Things Secure
It protects sensitive data, such as passwords and personal information, so that only authorized individuals can view or modify it.
4. Handles Multiple Users
An Application Server can handle Multiple Users at the same time and provide service to all of them without crashing.
Main Differences Between Web Server and App Server
| Web Server | Application Server |
| Serves static content (HTML, CSS) | Serves dynamic content (login, payments) |
| Simple requests | Complex logic and business rules |
| No | Yes |
| Apache, Nginx | Tomcat, Node.js, JBoss |
| Limited (just files) | Full support for back-end code |
| Very fast | Slightly slower (more processing involved) |
When to Use a Web Server?
You should use a web server if:
- You don’t have user logins, forms, or dynamic features.
- Your website is primarily static (HTML, images, CSS, etc.).
- You want fast loading and simple hosting.
- Example: A business website with company info, a contact page, and a gallery.
When to Use an Application Server?
You need an application server if:
- Your project needs user interaction (like login, sign-up, search).
- You want to store and manage data (like user profiles and product orders).
- You need real-time features, like messaging or notifications.
- Example: E-commerce website, social media app, chat app, banking system.
Which One Does Your Project Need?
| Project Type | What You Need |
| Static Business Website | Only Web Server |
| Blog with CMS (like WordPress) | Web Server + Application Server (PHP) |
| E-commerce Website | Both |
| Mobile App Backend | Application Server |
| Real-Time Chat App | Application Server |
Conclusion
Choosing a server plays a vital role in your project, depending on the type of project you are building. If your project only displays information such as text, images, or videos, then a web server is sufficient. However, if your project requires users to log in, send messages, or perform actions such as purchasing products, then you’ll also need an application server.
Most modern web applications use both a web server for speed and an application server for logic and power.
Web servers are like servers—they deliver web pages to users quickly and efficiently. Application servers are like chefs—they do the hard work in the kitchen, like handling logins, saving user info, and running the logic behind the scenes.
Before you start building your website or app, consider what it needs to do. That way, you can select the correct server and ensure everything runs smoothly for your users.
