1. Introduction | Java Servlet Programming (Java Series)

Java Servlet Programming, 2nd Edition > 1. Introduction

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Chapter 1. Introduction

The rise of server-side Java applications everything from standalone servlets to the full Java 2, Enterprise Edition (J2EE), platform has been one of the most exciting trends to watch in Java programming. The Java language was originally intended for use in small, embedded devices. It was first hyped as a language for developing elaborate client-side web content in the form of applets. But until the last few years, Java's potential as a server-side development platform had been sadly overlooked. Now, Java has come to be recognized as a language ideally suited for server-side development.

Businesses in particular have been quick to recognize Java's potential on the server Java is inherently suited for large client/server applications. The cross-platform nature of Java is extremely useful for organizations that have a heterogeneous collection of servers running various flavors of the Unix and Windows (and increasingly Mac OS X) operating systems. Java's modern, object-oriented, memory-protected design allows developers to cut development cycles and increase reliability. In addition, Java's built-in support for networking and enterprise APIs provides access to legacy data, easing the transition from older client/server systems.

Java servlets are a key component of server-side Java development. A servlet is a small, pluggable extension to a server that enhances the server's functionality. Servlets allow developers to extend and customize any Java-enabled web or application server with a hitherto unknown degree of portability, flexibility, and ease. But before we go into any more detail, let's put things into perspective.

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