Apache vs LiteSpeed: What are the differences?

Good performance is essential for the success of a web project. There are many measures that can shorten website loading times, but a fundamental decision that webmasters must make is the choice of web server. The Apache HTTP web server is the most well-known solution on the market. However, with the LiteSpeed web server, users have a real alternative available that promises even better performance.

What is the Apache HTTP web server?

The Apache HTTP web server is an open-source software maintained by the Apache Software Foundation.

In 1994, a team of 8 young developers extended the NSCA HTTd web server. Their result, which they released in 1995, laid the foundation for the current Apache server. Over the years, the application has been continuously developed. Today, with a market share of over 20% (Source: Statista), the server is one of the most popular.

Due to its long presence in the market and open-source nature, the Apache HTTP Webserver is extremely stable and secure. With the open-source solution, users can easily adapt and configure the software to their needs. By using appropriate modules, the functions can be extended as desired. The server is suitable for both Windows and Unix-like operating systems.

By using server-side scripting languages like PHP, Perl, or Ruby, it is possible to generate dynamic web pages using Apache. However, the server only supports the HTTP protocol in version 2 (HTTP/2).

Furthermore, the server impresses by being completely free to use. Users can find free help from community support for any questions or issues.

What is the LiteSpeed Webserver?

The LiteSpeed Webserver (LSWS) was first introduced in 2003 by a development team led by George Wang in the USA. The server is still distributed by LiteSpeed Technologies today. However, there has been a free community version since 2013.

The server software is clearly focused on improving performance. The developers aim to address the rapidly increasing web traffic by optimising the server software to make the most of the available hardware resources.

The LiteSpeed Server is fully compatible with Apache, so even switchers should not encounter any problems. .htaccess and numerous modules can be executed on LSWS without restrictions.

In contrast to Apache, the LiteSpeed Server supports HTTP/3, which can process requests even faster. Therefore, the LSWS has a significant advantage in terms of performance compared to the industry giant.

With the LSCache plugin, the server is also optimally tailored to the CMS WordPress. This allows WordPress blogs or WooCommerce shops to load much faster than with other systems.

Apache vs. LiteSpeed: Which Web Server is Better?

The question of which of the two web servers presented is better cannot be answered categorically. Both systems have their advantages and disadvantages.

Advantages of the Apache HTTP Server

• Due to its long presence in the market and modular structure, Apache is a very versatile and stable solution. Especially for admins starting their first web projects, this server provides a good entry point.
• It offers plenty of room to try out different solutions and gain experience.
• Moreover, it is open-source software accessible to every user.

However, web projects with high traffic quickly reach their limits with Apache. To achieve better performance, Nginx can be used as a proxy. Another alternative, however, is the LiteSpeed web server.

Advantages of the LiteSpeed Web Server

• In terms of performance, LSWS is far ahead of the competition.
• Additionally, it hosts WordPress websites much more efficiently than other servers.

Therefore, LSWS is often the preferred choice for demanding users and webmasters managing more extensive web projects.

Both web server variants Apache and LiteSpeed have their individual advantages and disadvantages. Therefore, a clear winner cannot be determined categorically. Instead, it depends on the specific requirements of your own web project. In the market, there are numerous providers offering both Apache hosting as well as LiteSpeed hosting.

Also, in a detailed comparison, learn about the advantages and disadvantages of other web server variants:

Apache vs. Nginx
Apache vs. IIS
Nginx vs. LiteSpeed

Our article is based on our own experiences and research as well as information from external sources.

Sources & further links on the topic:
https://httpd.apache.org/ (official website of the Apache Web Server)
https://www.litespeedtech.com/ (official website of the LiteSpeed Web Server)

Image credit:
Gerd Altmann on Pixabay