JSP vs. HTML: What's the Difference?
Edited by Janet White || By Harlon Moss || Published on February 15, 2024
JSP (Java Server Pages) is a server-side technology for creating dynamic web pages, while HTML (HyperText Markup Language) is a standard markup language for designing static web page content.
Key Differences
JSP (Java Server Pages) is a server-side technology used to create dynamic, interactive web content. It allows embedding of Java code in HTML pages, processed on the server before being sent to the client. HTML (HyperText Markup Language), on the other hand, is a standard markup language used to create the structure and layout of web pages. HTML is processed and rendered by the client's web browser.
JSP enables the creation of web pages with content that can change based on user interactions, server conditions, or other dynamic data. It is often used in combination with Java servlets to build web applications. HTML provides the basic framework of web pages, defining elements such as headings, paragraphs, links, and images, but it cannot create dynamic content on its own.
A key aspect of JSP is its ability to interact with server-side databases and applications, allowing for the creation of data-driven web pages like user forums, shopping carts, and personalized content. HTML, however, is primarily used for presenting static information and does not inherently support interaction with databases or server-side applications.
The JSP technology typically requires a server that can process Java code, such as Apache Tomcat or IBM WebSphere. It's part of the Java EE platform and integrates seamlessly with other Java technologies. HTML pages do not require any specific server capabilities for hosting and can be displayed by any standard web browser.
In terms of learning curve and complexity, JSP requires knowledge of Java programming, making it more complex to learn and use compared to HTML. HTML is generally easier to learn and is the foundational language for web development, often taught as the starting point for building web pages.
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Comparison Chart
Technology Type
Server-side scripting
Client-side markup language
Dynamic or Static
Creates dynamic content
Used for static content
Server Interaction
Interacts with server-side applications
Does not interact with server-side applications
Requirement
Needs a Java-enabled server
Can be rendered by any standard web browser
Complexity
Requires Java knowledge, more complex
Easier to learn, foundational web language
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JSP and HTML Definitions
JSP
Often used for building data-driven, interactive web applications.
Our e-commerce site is powered by JSP for real-time inventory updates.
HTML
Defines elements like headings, paragraphs, links, and images in web pages.
We used HTML to add text and images to our website.
JSP
Integrates with Java servlets to enhance web application functionality.
We integrate JSP with servlets for efficient web application development.
HTML
A markup language for creating and structuring web page content.
I designed the webpage layout using HTML.
JSP
Part of the Java EE platform for enterprise web solutions.
Our enterprise web application is developed using the Java EE platform, including JSP.
HTML
Provides the basic framework and look of web pages.
The HTML code determines the structure of our web page.
JSP
A technology for creating dynamic web content using Java.
We used JSP to build the interactive features of our website.
HTML
Can be enhanced with CSS and JavaScript for better design and interactivity.
We enhanced our HTML pages with CSS for styling and JavaScript for interactive features.
JSP
Enables embedding Java code in web pages for server-side processing.
JSP pages process user data on the server before displaying results.
HTML
The standard language for designing static web pages.
Basic knowledge of HTML is essential for web design.
HTML
A markup language used to structure text and multimedia documents and to set up hypertext links between documents, used extensively on the World Wide Web.
HTML
A set of tags and rules (conforming to SGML) for using them in developing hypertext documents
FAQs
Do I need a special server to run JSP?
Yes, a Java-enabled server like Apache Tomcat.
Can JSP create interactive web pages?
Yes, JSP is used for dynamic, interactive web content.
Is HTML static or dynamic?
HTML is static but can be made dynamic with scripting languages.
What is JSP?
Java Server Pages, a server-side technology for dynamic web content.
Can HTML interact with databases?
No, HTML itself cannot interact with databases.
Can I use HTML with JSP?
Yes, JSP can be embedded in HTML.
What is HTML?
HyperText Markup Language, used for creating web page structures.
What language is used in JSP?
JSP uses Java programming language.
Can JSP run on non-Java servers?
No, it requires Java server support.
Is HTML sufficient for web design?
For basic structure, yes, but often used with CSS and JavaScript.
Is HTML easy to learn?
Yes, it's considered beginner-friendly in web development.
Can JSP process data on the server?
Yes, it processes data on the server side.
Is JSP still popular?
It's used, but there are newer technologies available.
Does HTML need a specific browser?
No, it works with all standard web browsers.
What can you build with JSP?
Data-driven sites, user forums, shopping carts, etc.
Is JSP part of Java EE?
Yes, it's integrated into the Java EE platform.
How is JSP different from servlets?
JSP is more HTML-centric, while servlets are pure Java.
What are the basics of HTML?
Tags, attributes, and elements structure.
How does HTML work with browsers?
Browsers render HTML to display web page content.
What are HTML elements?
Tags like headings, paragraphs, and links in web pages.
About Author
Written by
Harlon MossHarlon is a seasoned quality moderator and accomplished content writer for Difference Wiki. An alumnus of the prestigious University of California, he earned his degree in Computer Science. Leveraging his academic background, Harlon brings a meticulous and informed perspective to his work, ensuring content accuracy and excellence.
Edited by
Janet WhiteJanet White has been an esteemed writer and blogger for Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Science and Medical Journalism from the prestigious Boston University, she has consistently demonstrated her expertise and passion for her field. When she's not immersed in her work, Janet relishes her time exercising, delving into a good book, and cherishing moments with friends and family.
