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Apache Maven vs Apache Tomcat: What are the differences?
- Installation and Purpose: Apache Maven is a build management tool that is used to build and manage projects, while Apache Tomcat is a web container that is used to run and deploy Java web applications.
- Function: Maven focuses on project dependency management, build automation, and standardization of project structure and processes. Tomcat, on the other hand, is specialized for running Java Servlets and JavaServer Pages (JSP) web applications.
- Build Process: Maven uses a declarative XML-based configuration file called the "pom.xml" to define project settings, dependencies, and build goals, which allows for easy automation and repeatability. Tomcat, on the other hand, does not have a built-in build process and relies on the deployment of pre-compiled Java web applications.
- Project Structure: Maven enforces a specific project structure called the "Standard Directory Layout" to ensure consistency and ease of navigation. Tomcat does not impose any specific project structure requirements, allowing developers more flexibility.
- Dependency Management: Maven has a powerful dependency management system that automatically downloads, manages, and resolves project dependencies, including both external libraries and other Maven-based projects. Tomcat can handle dependencies but does not offer the same level of automation and flexibility as Maven.
- Deployment: Maven can deploy project artifacts to various repositories, including local repositories, remote repositories, and even to the Maven Central Repository for public distribution. Tomcat, on the other hand, deploys web applications directly to the Tomcat server, either by copying the web application directory or by using the Tomcat Manager web interface.
In summary, Apache Maven is a build management tool focused on project structure, automation, and dependency management, while Apache Tomcat is a web container specialized for running Java web applications. Maven provides a standardized build process with dependency resolution, while Tomcat offers a lightweight environment for deploying and running web applications.
I was in a situation where I have to configure 40 RHEL servers 20 each for Apache HTTP Server and Tomcat server. My task was to 1. configure LVM with required logical volumes, format and mount for HTTP and Tomcat servers accordingly. 2. Install apache and tomcat. 3. Generate and apply selfsigned certs to http server. 4. Modify default ports on Tomcat to different ports. 5. Create users on RHEL for application support team. 6. other administrative tasks like, start, stop and restart HTTP and Tomcat services.
I have utilized the power of ansible for all these tasks, which made it easy and manageable.
Pros of Apache Maven
- Dependency management138
- Necessary evil70
- I’d rather code my app, not my build60
- Publishing packaged artifacts48
- Convention over configuration43
- Modularisation18
- Consistency across builds11
- Prevents overengineering using scripting6
- Runs Tests4
- Lot of cool plugins4
- Extensible3
- Hard to customize2
- Runs on Linux2
- Runs on OS X1
- Slow incremental build1
- Inconsistent buillds1
- Undeterminisc1
- Good IDE tooling1
Pros of Apache Tomcat
- Easy79
- Java72
- Popular49
- Spring web1
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Cons of Apache Maven
- Complex6
- Inconsistent buillds1
- Not many plugin-alternatives0
Cons of Apache Tomcat
- Blocking - each http request block a thread3
- Easy to set up2