GlassFish vs Microsoft IIS: What are the differences?

# Key Differences between GlassFish and Microsoft IIS

GlassFish and Microsoft IIS are both popular web servers, but they have key differences that differentiate them in terms of their features and functionalities.

1. **Platform Compatibility**: GlassFish is primarily designed for Java EE applications, making it more suitable for developers who work with Java technologies. On the other hand, Microsoft IIS is a Windows-based web server, making it the go-to choice for developers working in a Microsoft-centric environment.

2. **Open Source vs. Proprietary**: GlassFish is an open-source server, providing developers with the flexibility to customize and extend its functionality according to their needs. In contrast, Microsoft IIS is a proprietary server, limiting customization options but offering tight integration with other Microsoft products and technologies.

3. **Scalability**: GlassFish is known for its ability to handle large-scale applications gracefully, with built-in support for clustering and load balancing. Microsoft IIS, while also capable of handling high traffic websites, may require additional configurations and tools to achieve similar levels of scalability.

4. **Security Features**: GlassFish comes with robust security features out of the box, such as support for SSL encryption, role-based access control, and security realms. Microsoft IIS also offers similar security features but may require additional licenses or third-party extensions for advanced security functionalities.

5. **Community Support**: GlassFish benefits from a strong open-source community, providing developers with a wealth of resources, forums, and third-party plugins to enhance its capabilities. Microsoft IIS, on the other hand, relies more on official Microsoft documentation and support channels for assistance and guidance.

6. **Cost Implications**: GlassFish being open-source is free to use, reducing upfront costs for developers and organizations. In contrast, Microsoft IIS typically involves licensing fees, especially for commercial use or advanced features, which may impact the overall cost of a web project.

In Summary, GlassFish and Microsoft IIS differ in platform compatibility, open-source vs. proprietary nature, scalability, security features, community support, and cost implications. Each server has its strengths and weaknesses, catering to different development environments and project requirements.