Tomcat is an open source web server that processes Java Server Pages and Java servlets. It can either run as a stand-alone server or work in integration with the Apache web server. Like Apache, the core Tomcat program is relatively simple, but there are many enhancements that can be added that make it much more complex. With stable releases of Tomcat 4.1 and the alpha releases of Tomcat 5.0, many major improvements have taken place in the areas of performance and scalability, which is driving more Tomcat servers into production. Today, Tomcat is fast becoming the application server of choice for many that are blessed with the option to find an alternative to the big IBM or the SUN iron.

The Apache Tomcat Performance Handbook is bundled with reliable and timely information written by Tomcat Performance experts. It features indepth coverage on the Tomcat performance space - right from determining performance requirements, to enunciating strategies for Tomcat Scalability, and Clustering. The book uses the example of a site that is written in servlets, JSP, and tags to illustrate the impact on performance. The book also features expert performance tips, tricks, and caveat that one should keep in mind, when designing an application for performance. PUB COMMENTS: Co-authored by the release manager of Tomcat, the Apache Tomcat Performance Handbook imparts all known information in the Tomcat server and application performance space. It also helps discover the entire range of options that exist within that space. It is an essential handbook for developers and administrators alike, who want to maximize performance of the Apache Tomcat Server, by learning the right strategies for proper data collection, analysis, troubleshooting, and configuration tuning.

The book's goal is to help developers and administrators understand performance testing, and optimize their Tomcat installations and web applications, to maximise the efficiency of Tomcat in production. The book covers Tomcat 4.1 as well as the 5.0 releases.