IBM WebSphere Application Server: An In-Depth Exploration

Deciding on the right application server for your organization's needs is crucial. In this blog, we delve into IBM WebSphere, one of the commonly used platforms, to help you determine if it aligns with your requirements. We'll explore its key features, benefits, and drawbacks to give you a comprehensive overview.

What is IBM WebSphere Application Server?

IBM WebSphere Application Server is a versatile Java server environment for business applications. It lets you deploy and handle applications and services seamlessly, no matter where or when they're accessed. With built-in management tools, you get better security and control. Plus, it supports multiple cloud setups, giving you flexibility in deployment. Its continuous delivery features ensure you can keep up with your business's pace.

The IBM WebSphere Platform

Many see IBM WebSphere as just an application server, but it's much more than that. It's a powerful platform that revolutionizes how businesses handle relationships with customers, partners, and employees. WebSphere offers a suite of tools to create advanced web applications, like electronic marketplaces.

WebSphere includes two key components: the WebSphere Application Server and WebSphere Liberty. These are versatile solutions that work seamlessly across various platforms and operating systems, including Windows and Linux.

Is IBM WebSphere Application Server Free?

For those interested in trying out IBM WebSphere to see if it fits their needs, IBM offers free downloads for both the traditional WebSphere and WebSphere Liberty versions. These downloads come with a trial period of 60 days and include no support or usage restrictions.

Individual developers can also use WebSphere and WebSphere Liberty for free on their personal machines. However, this is limited to single-developer usage, and the total combined JVM heap space across all instances should not exceed 2 gigabytes. It's important to note that there's no official support provided by IBM for these free usage scenarios."

Example of IBM WebSphere Application Server Architecture

The IBM WebSphere Application Server (WAS) architecture consists of a complex system of interconnected components.

The following example, taken from the official WAS documentation, illustrates a single application server installation. The diagram highlights the many components involved in the server. Let's explore some of these key components:

 

1. Web Container

The web container is a crucial part of WebSphere where web application components run. This includes servlets, JSP files, and other server-side files. Each web container has a web server responsible for handling HTTP requests and managing the transport chain.

2. Messaging Engine

A key component within WebSphere is the messaging engine. Based on JMS and JCA specifications, it allows handling asynchronous requests as messages. The messaging engine is automatically created for every new application server or server cluster added.

3. EJB Container

Another important component is the EJB container, which provides a runtime environment for enterprise beans within the application server. Using the WebSphere Admin Console, you can easily adjust EJB container settings such as the passivation directory or EJB cache settings.

Notable WebSphere Application Server Features and Benefits

IBM WebSphere offers several notable benefits:

• Highly Scalable: It provides a robust and scalable server environment.
• Well-Established: It is a well-known software that has been reliable in the market for many years.
• Regular Updates: It is continuously updated with new features and improvements.
• Cloud-Friendly: Recent updates have included new components that simplify the journey to cloud environments.

Let's explore three key features and benefits: MicroProfile Support, WebSphere Admin Console, and IBM Cloud integration.

MicroProfile Support

For those who prefer working with MicroProfile technologies, there's good news! WebSphere Liberty fully supports MicroProfile, a collection of specifications for Java cloud-native microservices. This makes building and managing microservices more efficient. 

WebSphere Admin Console

The WebSphere Admin Console is a significant benefit compared to lightweight application servers. It allows you to control all settings from a single interface, including security settings, application deployment, and performance monitoring. Additionally, you can manage multiple servers using WebSphere Application Server Network Deployment.

IBM Cloud Integration

If you prefer not to host the application server on your own infrastructure, you can use a cloud provider like IBM Cloud. IBM Cloud supports both traditional and Liberty WebSphere Application Server. This option is convenient if you want everything from one supplier. IBM Cloud offers support for multi-cloud environments, enhanced security, and flexible licensing models.

When to Use WebSphere Application Server

If you plan to create sophisticated e-commerce web applications that require high availability, security, and performance, WebSphere Application Server (WAS) is an excellent choice. It offers robust features that go beyond basic requirements. Additionally, WAS provides support services, although this is a paid option.

When Not to Use WebSphere Application Server

For small to medium-sized projects, WebSphere Application Server may be overkill, as these projects typically don't need all the features it offers. Opting for a more lightweight solution can reduce infrastructure costs. Additionally, consider the risk of vendor lock-in when investing in WebSphere.

How WebSphere Application Server Works?

WebSphere Application Server enables the building, deployment, and execution of applications in flexible and secure Java EE-certified runtime environments. It caters to a range of needs, from lightweight production setups to extensive enterprise deployments.

The platform ensures consistency by providing the same runtime environment for both development/testing and production. This helps developers code confidently and reduces the effort required for testing.

Can WebSphere Application Server be deployed in containers?

Yes, WebSphere Application Server can be deployed in containers. This deployment option is becoming increasingly popular due to its flexibility, scalability, and efficiency in managing application workloads.

Licensing Options for WebSphere Application Server in Container Deployments

For licensing WebSphere Application Server in containerized environments, you have several options:

1. Perpetual Processor Value Units (PVUs): This option is suitable for traditional server deployments where licensing is based on the processor's capacity.
2. Monthly Virtual Processor Cores (VPCs): Ideal for virtualized environments, this option allows you to license based on the virtual processor cores used.
3. WebSphere Hourly Option for Containers: Specifically designed for containerized environments with mixed workloads, this option provides flexibility and cost-effectiveness by charging based on hourly usage in containers.

Each option has its advantages, so choosing the right licensing model depends on your specific deployment needs and infrastructure setup.

Final Thoughts

If you're an independent developer or part of a small organization requiring an application server for a sophisticated e-commerce business, consider IBM WebSphere. It's a reputable, secure, and readily accessible server solution. However, note that while support is available for both traditional WebSphere and WebSphere Liberty users, it is a paid service.