Apache Tomcat

Apache Tomcat is a widely used open-source implementation of the Jakarta Servlet, Jakarta Server Pages, and Jakarta EE specifications. It provides a reliable environment for running Java web applications and is essential for developers working within the Jakarta EE ecosystem. Tomcat versions 10 and later are aligned with Jakarta EE specifications, while versions 9 and earlier correlate with the Java EE framework, highlighting the evolution of the application server to meet modern standards.
Tomcat 10.1 and subsequent releases bring significant enhancements and necessitate thorough code modifications when migrating applications from earlier versions to accommodate changes in package names and API implementations. Notable features of Tomcat include:
- Servlet and JSP Support: Full support for the latest Jakarta Servlet and JSP specifications, ensuring compatibility with modern web applications.
- Enhanced Security Features: Regular updates that address security vulnerabilities and improve application security.
- Migration Tools: Tools such as the Apache Tomcat Migration Tool for Jakarta EE assist developers in transitioning applications from older versions to the latest releases, reducing the complexity of upgrades.
- Community Support: A strong community around Tomcat ensures robust support and continuous improvements, making it suitable for mission-critical web applications.
Apache Tomcat is compatible with Java 17 JVMs across all currently supported versions (9.0.x, 10.1.x, and 11.0.x). Users are advised against copying configuration files from older versions into newer major versions during migration, but they can retain them for minor version upgrades. For those transitioning from earlier versions, detailed migration guides are available to provide clear instructions and best practices.