Can We Use Java for Web Development​?

As Java is turning 30 this year, it is still among the most used and effective programming languages today. It is the primary technology for Android app development. It is widely used in ecommerce, embedded systems, and various corporate systems. But what about modern web development? Has Java managed to catch up with the rapidly evolving world of the web?

This post defines web applications, explains why Java web development remains one of the best options in 2025, and outlines the steps and tools for creating web apps in Java.

SaM Solutions helps to deliver powerful and reliable Java software of any scale and complexity.

What Is a Web Application?

In simplest terms, a web application (also called a web app) is software that runs and is accessed by users through a web browser. Unlike a desktop application, it does not need to be downloaded or installed on a user’s device.

Web-based application example: friendlyway Cloud Platform

Dynamic web applications (think of real-time dashboards or ecommerce sites) deliver content that changes based on user interactions. In contrast, static web apps used for simple websites deliver fixed content exactly as it is stored. Other popular types include Single Page Applications (SPAs) and Progressive Web Applications (PWAs).

The emergence of common interactive web applications is closely related to the introduction of technologies like JavaScript and server-side scripting languages in the late 1990s and early 2000s. The concept was first introduced in Java with the release of the Servlet API. Several years later popular web services such as Gmail and Google Maps were launched.

Simplified web application architecture

In the client-server architecture, a special server app, usually installed on a remote computer, provides services to other apps, the so-called “clients.” A client establishes a connection with the server and sends an HTTP request. The server listens to the client, receives and executes the request, and then returns the result to the client as an HTTP response. Requests and responses are represented by records whose structure is defined by the used protocols.

While traditional desktop applications typically entirely reside on the client’s PC, web applications have a multi-tiered architecture. The three common tiers are:

1. Presentation — the controllers communicating with the web browser
2. Application — the service tier where the business logic resides
3. Storage — the repository communicating with the database

Three-tiered web application architecture

Why Use Java for Web Development

Java has been a cornerstone of web development for decades and remains a dominant choice. Here is why.

Platform independence

The WORA slogan, “Write Once, Run Anywhere,” demonstrates Java’s cross-platform benefits. Applications are compiled into standard bytecode, which can be deployed across devices and operating systems. A target platform only requires an installed Java Virtual Machine (JVM), a common practice in the industry.

While certain nuances exist, Java’s architecture neutrality principle makes it highly portable and ideal for diverse web environments.

Robust security and high reliability

Java is known for its strong built-in features focusing on security. These include bytecode verification, secure class loading, runtime checks, and the Spring Security framework, which protects web applications from common vulnerabilities.

An automatic garbage collector minimizes memory leaks, extensive testing tools enhance code quality, whereas backward compatibility ensures that web applications can be maintained in the long term. Due to its enterprise-grade reliability, banks and telecoms use Java for mission-critical systems.

Scalability and performance

Java’s frameworks offer horizontal and vertical scaling tools to handle increased user loads and transaction rates. This scalability advantage makes the technology suitable for projects of all sizes with any volume of traffic and data — from small-scale websites to complex ecommerce platforms or enterprise web portals.

On the performance side, the multithreading support allows concurrent processing of multiple client requests, ensuring better responsiveness. The Just-In-Time (JIT) compiler and efficient garbage collection also increase programs’ execution speed.

Extensive collection of libraries and frameworks

Java provides powerful frameworks with ready-to-use components to facilitate web development, enhance productivity, and reduce project time. For example, the Spring framework helps build enterprise-level applications, whereas Hibernate simplifies database interaction.

The Java Class Library contains the core, integration, and user interface libraries, supporting application development.

Wide community support

Java has a massive and active developer community, ensuring fast resolution of development challenges, continuous improvement, and support. Companies or individuals participating in the Java Community Process program can influence the design of standard technical specifications.

A comprehensive, organized documentation system and numerous tutorials make resources for learning and troubleshooting easy to find.

Ease of integration with modern technologies

Java supports RESTful and SOAP web services, enabling modern microservices-based architectures, a big trend in web development. It facilitates seamless communication with ERP, CRM, and other corporate systems in enterprise environments.

Java’s APIs and tools simplify connections to popular third-party apps and legacy systems. The ease of integration with cloud platforms makes it a favorite for cloud-native development.

Steps to Develop a Web Application Using Java

While Java is a complex, multipurpose technology, it is just one piece of a software development project. Follow the guide below to develop and deploy a web application efficiently using Java.

Of course, application monitoring, bug fixing, and updates remain necessary after the deployment phase.

SaM Solutions’ seasoned and proactive Java engineering team provides end-to-end Java software development services.

Java Programming for Web Development: List of Technologies

The different Java technologies can be divided into several buckets based on their intended application.

BACK END

DATABASE HANDLING

FRONT END

PROJECT BUILD & MANAGEMENT

DEPLOYMENT

Selecting Your Java-Based Web Development Team

To create scalable, high-performing web applications, turn to SaM Solutions, a trusted IT services provider with 30 years of experience delivering tailored solutions for businesses across sectors. With over 120 focused Java experts on our global team, industry partnerships, and ISO compliance, we leverage cutting-edge technologies to build secure, future-proof applications.

Choosing SaM Solutions for your Java development needs means partnering with a company committed to your success. Our flexible cooperation models allow you to outsource your project, hire a team, or bring in individual developers. Whether launching a new web application, migrating from legacy systems, or enhancing your existing solution, our team has the expertise, tools, and dedication to bring your vision to life.

Wrapping It Up

Back to the initial question — whether Java will still be used for web development in 2025, — we can confidently answer that the technology has maintained its position as a strong alternative due to its high reliability, scalability, and performance. Many cloud-based and data-intensive web apps for enterprises rely on Java.

Importantly, it is a versatile language that enables the development of a wide range of software, web-based or intended for other platforms. You can build highly functional mobile apps, effective desktop applications, and complex IoT software. This versatility makes Java a top choice for transforming diverse business ideas and wishes into impactful digital solutions.