Eagle (application server)

Eagle, in the context of application servers, refers to a specific application server product developed and maintained by OpenLogic by Perforce. It is a Java EE-certified application server primarily designed for deploying and managing enterprise Java applications.

Overview:

Eagle is positioned as a lightweight and standards-compliant alternative to more complex and resource-intensive application servers. It aims to provide a simplified development and deployment experience while adhering to Java EE specifications. Key features often highlighted include:

• Java EE Compliance: Eagle is certified for specific versions of the Java EE platform, ensuring compatibility with Java EE components and APIs. This allows developers to leverage standard Java EE technologies such as servlets, JavaServer Pages (JSPs), Enterprise JavaBeans (EJBs), and Java Persistence API (JPA).
• Lightweight Architecture: The server's architecture is designed to be relatively lightweight, consuming fewer system resources compared to some of its counterparts. This can lead to faster startup times and reduced overhead.
• Simplified Deployment: Eagle often emphasizes ease of deployment, aiming to reduce the complexity associated with deploying and managing Java EE applications.
• Web Console: A web-based administration console is typically provided for managing the server, deploying applications, and configuring server settings.
• Clustering Support: Depending on the version, Eagle may offer clustering capabilities for high availability and scalability, allowing applications to be distributed across multiple server instances.
• Security Features: Built-in security features, such as authentication and authorization mechanisms, help protect applications and resources from unauthorized access.

History and Evolution:

The history of Eagle is intertwined with the evolution of Java EE application server technology. The specific versions, features, and maintenance schedules have changed over time, and users should consult the official documentation for the specific version they are using.

Alternatives:

Eagle exists within a competitive landscape of Java EE application servers. Alternatives include Apache Tomcat, Jetty, GlassFish, WildFly, and commercial options like Oracle WebLogic Server and IBM WebSphere Application Server. The choice of application server depends on factors such as project requirements, budget, and development team expertise.

Use Cases:

Eagle is typically used for deploying and running a wide range of enterprise Java applications, including web applications, RESTful web services, and enterprise business applications. It is suitable for organizations looking for a standards-compliant and relatively lightweight Java EE application server.