Spring Boot vs Spring Framework: What are the differences?
Introduction:
In the world of Java development, Spring Framework and Spring Boot are two popular frameworks that are used to build Java applications. While they have similarities, there are important differences between the two.
1. Spring Boot: Efficient Setup and Auto Configuration
One key difference between Spring Framework and Spring Boot is their approach to setting up a project. In Spring Framework, developers need to configure the application by writing configuration files and setting up various components manually. On the other hand, Spring Boot provides a convention-over-configuration approach, automating many of the configuration tasks. It automatically configures various components based on certain defaults, allowing developers to start a project quickly with minimal upfront configuration.
2. Spring Framework: Modular and Flexible Architecture
Spring Framework follows a modular architecture, allowing developers to pick and choose the specific modules they need for their application. This modular approach provides flexibility, as developers can include only the necessary components and avoid unnecessary dependencies. Spring Boot, on the other hand, adopts an opinionated approach, providing a set of pre-configured modules and dependencies that work together seamlessly. While this makes development easier, it may introduce unnecessary dependencies in some cases.
3. Spring Boot: Embedded Server and Simplified Deployment
Spring Boot includes an embedded server, such as Tomcat or Jetty, which allows developers to package their application as a single, executable JAR file. This makes deployment and distribution of the application much simpler, as it eliminates the need to set up a separate server environment. In contrast, Spring Framework requires developers to manually configure and deploy the application on an external server, which can be more complex and time-consuming.
4. Spring Framework: Flexibility and Extensibility
Spring Framework provides a wide range of features and APIs that allow developers to customize and extend the framework according to their specific needs. With its flexible architecture, developers can integrate various third-party libraries and frameworks seamlessly. In contrast, Spring Boot focuses on providing a streamlined development experience, sacrificing some of the flexibility and extensibility offered by the Spring Framework.
5. Spring Boot: Simplified Dependency Management
Dependency management is made easier in Spring Boot compared to Spring Framework. Spring Boot uses a concept called "starter dependencies" that automatically manages and configures the required dependencies for specific functionalities. Developers only need to include the relevant starter dependency in their project, and Spring Boot takes care of the rest. In Spring Framework, developers have to manually manage dependencies, which can be a cumbersome task, especially in large-scale applications.
6. Spring Framework: Mature and Comprehensive Documentation
Spring Framework has been around for a longer time and has a more mature and comprehensive documentation. It provides extensive resources, tutorials, and examples that help developers understand and utilize the framework effectively. Spring Boot, being a relatively newer addition to the Spring ecosystem, may not have the same level of documentation and resources available. However, Spring Boot does provide its own set of documentation and resources to support developers.
In Summary:
Spring Boot simplifies the setup and configuration process, automates many tasks, and provides an embedded server for easier deployment. While Spring Framework offers more flexibility, extensibility, and modular architecture, with a more mature and comprehensive documentation.
