How to Deploy a Java Web Application on a Web Server

Choosing the Right Hosting for Your Java Application

Don’t settle for just any hosting — Java needs a thoughtful choice. Here’s what matters:

• Java Support: Look for providers that excel with Java, like Hostiserver, A2 Hosting, or Kamatera. They handle servlet containers such as Apache Tomcat, Jetty, or GlassFish with ease.
• Reliability: Java apps can be demanding, so opt for a host with 99.9% uptime to avoid disruptions.
• Scalability: As your project grows, ensure your provider can scale resources effortlessly. Want to learn more about choosing a hosting provider? Check out our article “How to Choose the Best Web Hosting: Is a More Expensive Server Always Better Than a Cheaper One?”
• Fast Support: Java can be tricky sometimes, so a skilled support team is essential.

A solid host sets the stage for success.

Setting Up Your Server

Once you’ve chosen your hosting, it’s time to set up the server and bring your app to life.

Step 1: Install the Java Development Kit (JDK)

Java powers your app, so install a current JDK version first. On Ubuntu, it’s simple:

sudo apt update

sudo apt install openjdk-21-jdk

Confirm it works:

java -version

Step 2: Launch the Application Server

Apache Tomcat is a great pick for Java. Install it on Ubuntu:

sudo apt install tomcat10

sudo systemctl start tomcat10

sudo systemctl enable tomcat10

Is Tomcat up? Visit < a href="http://your-server-ip:808">http://your-server-ip:8080. If you see Tomcat’s welcome page, you’re on the right track!

Deploying Your Java Application

1. Step 1: Package Your App into a WAR File
   Java apps typically get bundled into a WAR (Web Application Archive) file. With Maven, just run:
   

   mvn clean package

   Your WAR file will appear in /target/ as your-application.war.
2. Step 2: Upload the WAR to the Server
   Transfer it to Tomcat’s directory:
   

   scp your-application.war username@your-server-ip:/var/lib/tomcat10/webapps/

3. Step 3: Check the Results
   Open your browser and go to:
   

   http://your-server-ip:8080/your-application

Customizing Your Server

Change the Port: Not a fan of 8080? Edit server.xml in Tomcat:

<Connector port="8080" protocol="HTTP/1.1" connectionTimeout="20000" redirectPort="8443" />

Nicer URL: Replace /your-application with /myapp by adding a context.xml file to your WAR’s META-INF folder.

Add HTTPS: Enable HTTPS to secure user data. For more information, see the article ““How to switch to HTTPS and HTTP/2””.

Testing Before Going Live

• Test Features: Try every part to confirm it works as planned.
• Load Testing: Run Apache JMeter to test performance under traffic.
• Spot Errors: If something’s off, check your logs here:

  /var/log/tomcat10/catalina.out

  .

Keeping Your App in Shape

• Monitor Performance: Use tools like Prometheus or Grafana to watch your server’s health.
• Back It Up: Set up automatic backups to safeguard your data.
• Stay Updated: Keep JDK, Tomcat, and dependencies current to close security gaps.

Launching your Java app can be simple — let’s do it right! Set up your server properly, and it’ll run fast, stay stable, and handle whatever comes its way.

FAQ