Apache vs. Nginx
Apache is a free, open-source software that allows for web server communication. It also has many sub-branches that specialize in different software types and aim to streamline and optimize the web server experience. These products range from JMeter, Spark to Pig. Apache also allows for load balancing, cloud computing, and overall enabling web content delivery through a customizable experience.
On the other hand, Nginx is also a free, open-source software created for accessing web servers. It provides load balancing, reverse and mail proxy, and HTTP cache collector utilities. Moreover, it has multiple sub-branches like the
Similarities
Let us discuss some similarities that these software provide.
Both software provide load balancing capabilities, which allow for a distributed load on the web server host and prevents an overload that can cause the web server to go down.
They can also act as reverse proxies, creating a safe environment free from malicious attacks.
They also have caching abilities. This allows for a faster process as static content can be saved as a cache and readily available for users.
While directing requests, both provide a compression solution. This means that data is compressed while processed, creating a faster connection.
Both servers support
SSL Secure Sockets Layer TLS Transport Layer Security
Differences
Now, we can look at some differences that both provide.
Apache | Nginx |
Created in 1995, therefore, has an older syntax flavor. | Created in 2004, therefore, has a more modern syntax flavor. |
Uses the process-driven architecture. | Uses the event-driven architecture. |
As a simple web server, it is slower. | It is faster as a simple web server. |
Has an easier configuration but is not efficient for large files. | A bit more complex, but better configuration which can handle large files. |
Has more products in its domain. | Has fewer products in its domain. |
Could not combat the scalability issue (C10K). | Solved the scalability issue (C10K). |
Less presentable and older documentation. | Presentable documentation with official tutorials to help users. |
Alternative approach
Although both software are used individually, we do not necessarily have to choose one. We can also use both together. For that, we can have Nginx as our proxy and have Apache running on our web servers or vis versa.
This goes to show that both provide utility in their respective domains.
Conclusion
We can summarize this debate as a choice between both depending on our requirements. Both software gives us a reliable and efficient solution to our problems and are capable in their domains. Therefore, we can select our preferred software depending on our needs and personal bias. However, if we look at the current trends, we can see an increase in Nginx's popularity and a decrease in Apache's.
Note: We can head to
and Apache's https://www.apache.org/ official websites to learn more about each software and explore each option thoroughly. Nginx's https://www.f5.com/go/product/welcome-to-nginx
Free Resources