Introduction
An application server is the middle layer that runs your application code and exposes it to users and other systems. It sits between your operating system and your database or external services, and it handles the “heavy lifting” that developers should not rebuild again and again. In practical terms, an application server manages request routing, application lifecycles, concurrency, resource pooling, configuration, logging, and security hooks so your team can focus on business logic.
Application servers matter because modern apps are expected to be reliable under load, easy to scale, and safe by default. Teams also need consistent deployment patterns across environments, predictable runtime behavior, and easy integration with identity systems, monitoring, and CI pipelines. Even when you use containers, you still need a runtime that can host apps cleanly, manage resources, and support standard protocols and frameworks.
Common real-world use cases include running Java web applications and APIs, hosting enterprise workflows and back-office systems, serving internal dashboards and portals, powering B2B integrations with secure authentication, and enabling legacy modernization where older apps must keep working while the platform evolves.
What buyers should evaluate:
Runtime compatibility with your frameworks, operational simplicity, clustering and high availability options, performance under concurrency, configuration and deployment model, observability and diagnostics, security controls and integration with identity, ecosystem maturity, support quality, and total cost of ownership across license, hardware, and staffing.
Best for: teams running Java or web workloads, IT departments managing shared runtimes, SaaS teams that need consistent deployments, and enterprises with governance requirements.
Not ideal for: very small static sites, simple serverless functions that do not need a long-running runtime, or teams that can run everything as single-purpose containers without shared platform needs.
Key Trends in Application Servers
Modern application servers are moving toward lighter runtimes, faster startup, better cloud packaging, simpler configuration, and stronger operational visibility. At the same time, enterprises still value stability, long support windows, and predictable patching.
- Lightweight, modular runtimes to reduce memory and startup time
- Better container friendliness and smoother image-based deployments
- Stronger built-in observability expectations for logs, metrics, and traces
- More emphasis on secure defaults and tighter TLS configuration
- Clearer separation between app configuration and runtime configuration
- Increased use of automation for provisioning, patching, and scaling
How We Selected These Tools (Methodology)
This list focuses on widely used and credible application servers across enterprise and developer-first segments. The selection logic emphasizes practical adoption and operational fit.
Top 10 Application Servers Tools
1 — Apache Tomcat
Apache Tomcat is a widely used Java web container that runs Java web applications and APIs. It is often chosen for its simplicity, strong community, and predictable operations, especially for teams running servlet-based applications.
Key Features
- Reliable Java web container with mature request handling
- Straightforward configuration and deployment model
- Strong operational familiarity across many teams
Pros
- Easy to operate and widely understood
- Strong fit for many Java web workloads
Cons
- Advanced enterprise features may require additional components
- Some enterprise patterns depend on external tooling
Platforms / Deployment
Windows / macOS / Linux
Self-hosted
Security & Compliance
Not publicly stated
Integrations & Ecosystem
Tomcat commonly integrates with reverse proxies, load balancers, identity providers, and monitoring tools through standard approaches. It is frequently paired with external components for clustering, caching, and advanced governance.
Minimal common integration points:
- Reverse proxy and load balancer patterns
- Identity integration via standard enterprise approaches
- Monitoring through agents and exporters (Varies / N/A)
Support & Community
Very strong community, extensive documentation, and broad third-party operational knowledge.
2 — WildFly
WildFly is a full Java application server known for enterprise-grade capabilities in an open ecosystem. It is used when teams want a broader feature set than a basic web container while staying in a community-driven stack.
Key Features
- Rich Java application server capabilities for enterprise apps
- Configuration model suited for managed environments
- Supports scalable deployment patterns depending on setup
Pros
- Strong feature depth for Java enterprise workloads
- Good fit for teams needing more than a basic container
Cons
- Operational complexity can be higher than lightweight runtimes
- Some deployments require careful tuning and governance
Platforms / Deployment
Windows / macOS / Linux
Self-hosted
Security & Compliance
Not publicly stated
Integrations & Ecosystem
WildFly fits well in enterprise operations where standard identity, monitoring, and automation practices are used.
Minimal common integration points:
- Standard identity integration patterns
- Automation via scripts and configuration management
- Monitoring and logging toolchains (Varies / N/A)
Support & Community
Active community and documentation. Support depends on your chosen distribution and operational model.
3 — Red Hat JBoss EAP
Red Hat JBoss EAP is an enterprise-grade application server built for organizations that need long-term stability, predictable maintenance, and supported operations. It is often selected where governance, standardization, and support contracts are important.
Key Features
- Enterprise-focused stability and operational lifecycle
- Strong runtime management and configuration control
- Suitable for mission-critical Java workloads
Pros
- Built for controlled enterprise operations and standardization
- Strong fit for regulated environments needing vendor support
Cons
- Cost and procurement can be a factor for smaller teams
- May feel heavy if you only need lightweight hosting
Platforms / Deployment
Windows / Linux (Varies / N/A by deployment choice)
Self-hosted
Security & Compliance
Not publicly stated
Integrations & Ecosystem
Commonly used with enterprise identity systems, centralized logging, monitoring platforms, and automation frameworks.
Minimal common integration points:
- SSO integration patterns (Varies / N/A)
- Monitoring and centralized logging (Varies / N/A)
- Enterprise automation workflows (Varies / N/A)
Support & Community
Strong enterprise support options and an ecosystem aligned to enterprise operations. Community resources vary by usage patterns.
4 — IBM WebSphere Application Server
IBM WebSphere Application Server is widely used in large enterprises that run long-lived applications, shared services, and back-office workflows. It is typically chosen for stability, governance, and compatibility with existing enterprise investments.
Key Features
- Enterprise runtime designed for large organizations
- Strong administrative tooling approach (Varies / N/A)
- Supports complex deployments and governance patterns
Pros
- Fits enterprise governance and long-lived applications
- Strong option for organizations already standardized on it
Cons
- Can be complex to operate and modernize around
- Cost and platform choices may not fit smaller teams
Platforms / Deployment
Varies / N/A
Self-hosted
Security & Compliance
Not publicly stated
Integrations & Ecosystem
WebSphere commonly integrates into enterprise environments through identity systems, auditing, and shared infrastructure standards.
Minimal common integration points:
- Enterprise identity and directory patterns
- Centralized logging and monitoring frameworks
- Integration middleware and messaging ecosystems (Varies / N/A)
Support & Community
Enterprise-grade support options typically exist. Community guidance may be less developer-oriented than smaller tools.
5 — Oracle WebLogic Server
Oracle WebLogic Server is a mature application server frequently used in enterprise environments, especially where Oracle-based stacks, packaged enterprise apps, or existing investments drive the platform choice.
Key Features
- Enterprise-grade runtime with administrative capabilities
- Designed for complex enterprise deployments
- Common in large organizations with standardized stacks
Pros
- Mature enterprise platform with long-term adoption
- Strong fit in Oracle-centered environments
Cons
- Procurement and licensing can be a constraint
- Modernization can require careful planning and expertise
Platforms / Deployment
Varies / N/A
Self-hosted
Security & Compliance
Not publicly stated
Integrations & Ecosystem
WebLogic often fits into enterprise identity and operations frameworks. Integrations are typically achieved through standard enterprise patterns and platform tooling.
Minimal common integration points:
- Enterprise identity integration patterns
- Monitoring and logging integrations (Varies / N/A)
- Messaging and integration stack alignment (Varies / N/A)
Support & Community
Vendor support options are typically available. Community resources exist but may not be as broad as developer-first platforms.
6 — Eclipse Jetty
Eclipse Jetty is a lightweight Java server often embedded into applications or used where minimal footprint and high performance matter. It is popular for teams that prefer simpler runtime composition.
Key Features
- Lightweight runtime suitable for embedded or minimal deployments
- Strong performance and low overhead approach
- Flexible integration into custom application packaging
Pros
- Great fit for lean services and embedded runtime patterns
- Efficient footprint compared to heavier servers
Cons
- Enterprise features may require additional components
- Operational conventions depend on how you package it
Platforms / Deployment
Windows / macOS / Linux
Self-hosted
Security & Compliance
Not publicly stated
Integrations & Ecosystem
Jetty commonly integrates through standard Java and infrastructure patterns and can be embedded into broader platforms easily.
Minimal common integration points:
- Reverse proxy and gateway integration
- Observability through common agent approaches (Varies / N/A)
- Custom packaging and deployment automation
Support & Community
Solid community and documentation. Support options vary by distribution and enterprise arrangements.
7 — GlassFish
GlassFish is a Java application server commonly associated with reference-style enterprise Java use cases and compatibility goals. It can be useful for certain workloads and environments where its feature set matches requirements
Key Features
- Java application server capabilities for enterprise apps
- Administrative console approach (Varies / N/A)
- Suitable for standard Java server deployments
Pros
- Useful for environments aligned to its feature set
- Familiar to teams with legacy Java server experience
Cons
- Adoption momentum can be lower than leading choices
- Some organizations prefer alternatives for long-term standardization
Platforms / Deployment
Windows / macOS / Linux
Self-hosted
Security & Compliance
Not publicly stated
Integrations & Ecosystem
GlassFish can integrate with common enterprise infrastructure, but ecosystem choices depend on the deployment style and team practices.
Minimal common integration points:
- Identity integration patterns (Varies / N/A)
- Monitoring via standard approaches (Varies / N/A)
- Automation through scripts and tools (Varies / N/A)
Support & Community
Community resources exist, but enterprise adoption varies. Support details: Varies / Not publicly stated.
8 — Payara Server
Payara Server is often chosen by teams that want a supported path aligned with familiar Java server patterns. It can be used in enterprise deployments where stability and support are valued.
Key Features
- Enterprise-oriented runtime based on established server patterns
- Operational features aimed at production environments
- Suitable for teams wanting support and predictability
Pros
- Fits production operations with a support-oriented approach
- Useful for teams standardizing on its runtime model
Cons
- Ecosystem breadth depends on your use case
- Some advanced needs may require complementary tools
Platforms / Deployment
Windows / macOS / Linux
Self-hosted
Security & Compliance
Not publicly stated
Integrations & Ecosystem
Payara commonly integrates with enterprise identity, monitoring, and automation tooling using standard patterns.
Minimal common integration points:
- Identity integration patterns
- Monitoring and logging pipelines (Varies / N/A)
- Automation through configuration tools (Varies / N/A)
Support & Community
Support options are typically part of its positioning. Community strength varies by region and industry.
9 — Open Liberty
Open Liberty is a lightweight Java runtime designed for modular deployment and faster operational workflows. It is often used for modern Java services that value smaller footprint and clearer configuration.
Key Features
- Modular runtime composition for lean deployments
- Configuration model suited for repeatable operations
- Designed to work well in cloud-style packaging
Pros
- Strong for modern Java services with lean runtime goals
- Helps reduce unnecessary runtime overhead
Cons
- Teams must align on conventions to avoid configuration sprawl
- Some enterprise features depend on selected modules and setup
Platforms / Deployment
Windows / macOS / Linux
Self-hosted
Security & Compliance
Not publicly stated
Integrations & Ecosystem
Open Liberty commonly integrates with identity systems, observability stacks, and automation toolchains using standard Java practices.
Minimal common integration points:
- Observability toolchains (Varies / N/A)
- Identity integration patterns (Varies / N/A)
- Automation and packaging workflows (Varies / N/A)
Support & Community
Good documentation and a modern developer focus. Support details: Varies / Not publicly stated.
10 — Microsoft IIS
Microsoft IIS is a web and application server commonly used for hosting applications built around Microsoft stacks. It is often chosen for its integration with Windows environments and operational familiarity in many IT teams.
Key Features
- Strong integration with Windows-based hosting environments
- Useful for hosting web applications and APIs in Microsoft ecosystems
- Administrative tools aligned with common Windows operations
Pros
- Natural fit for organizations standardized on Windows hosting
- Operationally familiar for many IT departments
Cons
- Platform scope is centered on Windows
- Workload fit depends on application framework choices
Platforms / Deployment
Windows
Self-hosted
Security & Compliance
Not publicly stated
Integrations & Ecosystem
IIS commonly integrates with Windows identity patterns, enterprise certificates, and monitoring systems used in Microsoft-centric environments.
Minimal common integration points:
- Identity and directory integration patterns (Varies / N/A)
- Monitoring and logging integrations (Varies / N/A)
- Reverse proxy and gateway patterns (Varies / N/A)
Support & Community
Strong operational familiarity and broad documentation availability. Support depends on enterprise agreements and environment setup.
Comparison Table
| Tool Name | Best For | Platform(s) Supported | Deployment | Standout Feature | Public Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apache Tomcat | Java web apps and APIs with simple operations | Windows / macOS / Linux | Self-hosted | Widely used, simple runtime | N/A |
| WildFly | Feature-rich Java server for enterprise apps | Windows / macOS / Linux | Self-hosted | Broad enterprise capabilities | N/A |
| Red Hat JBoss EAP | Supported enterprise Java runtime | Windows / Linux (Varies / N/A) | Self-hosted | Enterprise lifecycle and support | N/A |
| IBM WebSphere Application Server | Large enterprise governance and legacy apps | Varies / N/A | Self-hosted | Enterprise standardization fit | N/A |
| Oracle WebLogic Server | Oracle-centered enterprise application stacks | Varies / N/A | Self-hosted | Mature enterprise platform | N/A |
| Eclipse Jetty | Lightweight or embedded Java runtime needs | Windows / macOS / Linux | Self-hosted | Lean footprint and performance | N/A |
| GlassFish | Java server workloads aligned to its runtime model | Windows / macOS / Linux | Self-hosted | Familiar Java server patterns | N/A |
| Payara Server | Production Java runtime with support focus | Windows / macOS / Linux | Self-hosted | Support-oriented operations | N/A |
| Open Liberty | Modular Java services and lean deployments | Windows / macOS / Linux | Self-hosted | Modular runtime composition | N/A |
| Microsoft IIS | Windows-hosted web and app workloads | Windows | Self-hosted | Windows ecosystem integration | N/A |
Evaluation & Scoring of Application Servers
This scoring model helps compare tools using the same yardstick. A higher total score suggests broader fit across many common scenarios, but it does not mean the tool is best for every organization. Your priorities may shift based on whether you value deep enterprise governance, lean runtime footprint, or platform standardization. Use the table to shortlist options, then validate with a small pilot that mirrors real production traffic, integrations, and operational processes.
Weights used
Core features 25%
Ease of use 15%
Integrations and ecosystem 15%
Security and compliance 10%
Performance and reliability 10%
Support and community 10%
Price and value 15%
| Tool Name | Core (25%) | Ease (15%) | Integrations (15%) | Security (10%) | Performance (10%) | Support (10%) | Value (15%) | Weighted Total (0–10) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apache Tomcat | 8 | 8 | 8 | 5 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 8.1 |
| WildFly | 9 | 7 | 8 | 5 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 7.8 |
| Red Hat JBoss EAP | 9 | 7 | 8 | 6 | 8 | 8 | 6 | 7.6 |
| IBM WebSphere Application Server | 9 | 6 | 7 | 6 | 8 | 7 | 4 | 6.9 |
| Oracle WebLogic Server | 9 | 6 | 7 | 6 | 8 | 7 | 4 | 6.9 |
| Eclipse Jetty | 7 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 7.6 |
| GlassFish | 7 | 7 | 6 | 5 | 7 | 6 | 8 | 6.9 |
| Payara Server | 8 | 7 | 7 | 5 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 7.1 |
| Open Liberty | 8 | 7 | 7 | 5 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 7.4 |
| Microsoft IIS | 8 | 7 | 7 | 5 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 7.1 |
Which Application Server Tool Is Right for You
Solo / Freelancer
If you want a simple runtime for Java web applications, Apache Tomcat is often the easiest to operate and troubleshoot. If your work is Windows-centric and tied to Microsoft frameworks, Microsoft IIS may be the most straightforward fit. For lean Java services, Open Liberty or Eclipse Jetty can be strong choices when you want a smaller footprint and predictable packaging.
SMB
Small teams should aim for low operational overhead and predictable deployments. Apache Tomcat is a practical choice for many Java workloads. If you need a broader feature set for enterprise-style applications without jumping into heavy enterprise suites, WildFly can work well with a clear operations playbook. Open Liberty can be a good fit for teams that want a modular approach and clean runtime composition.
Mid-Market
Mid-market teams often need stronger standardization, reliable operations, and scalable deployment patterns. Red Hat JBoss EAP is a common choice when support, lifecycle management, and predictable maintenance matter. WildFly can also fit if you have strong internal expertise. If you host a mix of workloads and need consistent governance, you may prefer a supported enterprise platform.
Enterprise
Enterprises often prioritize long support windows, governance, and compatibility with existing systems. Red Hat JBoss EAP is typically chosen for supported Java runtimes. IBM WebSphere Application Server and Oracle WebLogic Server are often selected where there is deep existing investment, packaged enterprise systems, or organizational standardization. The best choice is usually the one that aligns with your operational model, procurement constraints, and migration path.
Budget vs Premium
Budget-focused teams often start with Apache Tomcat, Eclipse Jetty, or Open Liberty because the platform cost is easier to manage and operations can remain lean. Premium enterprise stacks usually choose supported platforms like Red Hat JBoss EAP, or continue with established enterprise standards like IBM WebSphere Application Server or Oracle WebLogic Server when migration risk is a major concern.
Feature Depth vs Ease of Use
For ease and simplicity, Apache Tomcat is commonly preferred. For deeper enterprise-style capability, WildFly and Red Hat JBoss EAP are stronger options. For organizations with complex legacy environments, enterprise suites may deliver governance features but require more expertise to operate efficiently.
Integrations & Scalability
If you have many integrations, prioritize consistency in configuration, rollout automation, and observability. Most servers can integrate well using standard identity and monitoring patterns, but the difference is how predictable and repeatable those patterns are in your organization. Run a pilot that validates real load, session handling, and deployment automation to avoid surprises.
Security & Compliance Needs
Many tool-specific compliance claims are not publicly stated, so treat security as a platform outcome, not a single product feature. Focus on TLS configuration, patch cadence, identity integration, least-privilege access for administration, and audit-ready logging at the infrastructure and process level. Then confirm how your chosen server supports these operational requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the main difference between a web server and an application server
A web server primarily serves static content and routes requests, while an application server runs application logic and manages runtime services like sessions, concurrency, and resource handling.
2. Do I need an application server if I use containers
Often yes, because containers package software, but you still need a runtime to run your app reliably. The application server provides lifecycle management and platform services inside or alongside containers.
3. Which option is simplest for Java web applications
Apache Tomcat is commonly viewed as one of the simplest choices. It is widely used, well documented, and easy to operate for many Java web workloads.
4. When should I choose a full Java application server instead of a lightweight runtime
Choose a full server when you need richer enterprise capabilities, standardized operations across many apps, or governance features that your organization expects.
5. How should I test an application server before standardizing
Run a pilot with real traffic patterns, real integrations, and your production-like observability setup. Measure stability, latency, resource use, and deployment repeatability.
6. What is the biggest migration risk when switching servers
Hidden dependencies on configuration, libraries, or platform behaviors. Teams also underestimate testing effort for performance, session handling, and security integration.
7. How important is support and lifecycle policy
Very important for production systems. Predictable patching and long-term maintenance reduce operational risk, especially for regulated or mission-critical workloads.
8. Can I use multiple application servers across the same organization
Yes, but it increases operational complexity. If you do, define clear standards for deployment, logging, monitoring, and identity integration so teams do not drift.
9. Which tools are best for Windows-first environments
Microsoft IIS is often the natural choice when the organization is standardized on Windows hosting and Microsoft-centric application frameworks.
10. What should my shortlist look like for most organizations
A practical shortlist is Apache Tomcat for simplicity, Open Liberty or Eclipse Jetty for lean services, and either WildFly or Red Hat JBoss EAP for deeper enterprise Java needs.
Conclusion
Application servers are a long-term platform decision because they shape how your teams deploy, scale, monitor, and secure applications. Lightweight options like Apache Tomcat, Eclipse Jetty, and Open Liberty are often ideal when you want simple operations, smaller footprint, and repeatable deployments. Full-featured platforms like WildFly and Red Hat JBoss EAP can be better when you need richer enterprise capabilities and standardization across many services. Enterprise suites such as IBM WebSphere Application Server and Oracle WebLogic Server may remain the best choice when existing investments, legacy compatibility, and governance requirements dominate. Shortlist two or three options, run a pilot with real traffic and integrations, and validate security and operations before you standardize.