A web server and an application server are two types of servers that perform different functions in a client-server architecture. Here are the key differences between the two:

Functionality:

            A web server's primary function is to serve static web content such as HTML pages, CSS stylesheets, images, and JavaScript files. When a client sends a request to a web server, it responds with the requested file or content, without any processing.

            On the other hand, an application server is designed to handle dynamic content, which requires server-side processing. An application server executes application logic, interacts with databases, and generates dynamic content in response to client requests. The application server is responsible for managing application components and services, such as Java Servlets, Enterprise JavaBeans (EJBs), and JavaServer Pages (JSPs).

Architecture:

            A web server is typically a standalone software program that listens for incoming HTTP requests from clients and responds with static content. A web server can be configured to support multiple protocols, such as HTTP, HTTPS, FTP, SMTP, and more. Examples of popular web servers include Apache HTTP Server, Nginx, and Microsoft IIS.

            An application server, on the other hand, is a more complex software system that provides a platform for running server-side applications. An application server typically includes a web server component, along with additional services such as transaction management, security, messaging, and more. Examples of popular application servers include JBoss, WebSphere, WebLogic, and Tomcat.

Deployment:

            Web servers are often used in conjunction with application servers to serve static content and forward dynamic requests to the application server for processing. In this deployment model, the web server acts as a reverse proxy, forwarding requests to the application server based on URL patterns or other criteria. This approach allows for better performance and scalability, as the web server can handle static requests more efficiently, while the application server can focus on processing dynamic requests.

            In conclusion, a web server and an application server serve different functions in a client-server architecture. While a web server serves static content, an application server is designed to handle dynamic content, executing application logic