Java vs PHP for Web Services Development: An Informed Comparison
PHP — a server-side, non-compiled type of programming language. Java is used for various purposes and is characterized by the WORA principle (write once, run everywhere), demonstrating the advantages of cross-platform applications. These technologies enable dynamic operation of web services and applications. If you are considering Java and PHP for web services development, this article is for you. Our experts have provided a comprehensive overview of both languages to help you make a choice. So, here is a comparison of Java and PHP for web services development.
A Brief Overview of Why Java
Originally, the Java language was intended for creating standalone software. First, it was used to write instructions that allowed VCRs to perform a series of specific operations. Java source code is compiled into machine code.
It is written in a file with a special header and extension for subsequent identification of that file. The binary code is interpreted by the Java Virtual Machine. Simply put, it makes the program run. Today, Java is most commonly used for creating web applications and mobile apps for Android phones.
A Brief Overview of Why PHP
PHP stands for “Hypertext Preprocessor.” Initially, PHP was introduced in 1995 as a server-side scripting language. The technology was designed for the web, unlike Python or Ruby, which were adapted for the web later. Although the language is quite mature, it remains popular among web services developers due to the release of newer and improved versions. PHP is the foundation of CMS systems such as Joomla, WordPress, and Drupal.
PHP or Java: Which is Better? Key Advantages of Java over PHP
Certainly, Java and PHP are different languages. Let's compare and contrast these web services development technologies.
Compiled Java vs. Interpreted PHP
Java software can be run on different OSes (this language is compiled, see the infographic below). PHP can be run on the server “as is.” Interpreted languages are considered better because they can be easily moved to another system without changes. These scripts are interpreted on the fly and optimized for the operating platform where the web service is installed.
The Compilation Process
How does code written by a programmer become machine-readable code that the computer understands? Compilers optimize the source code of the web service and its parts, create intermediate object code, and then link this code to make it readable by the computer's CPU. The result is an executable file that the CPU can easily process and run.
Source Code → Optimization → Object Code → Linker (Standard Libraries, User Libraries, Object Code) → Executable Program “exe.”
The respective languages are converted to machine-readable code before execution, compared to interpreted languages which are compiled into machine code during runtime.
Memory Access Safety
Memory access safety protects your system from vulnerabilities and errors. In this sense, Java is safer for web services development. PHP does not allow programmers to manage memory, as it cannot write or read in memory. Consequently, this language is not considered as safe as Java for development.
Static Typing vs. Dynamic Typing
Java checks types statically (many types are specified by programmers). The advantage of this approach is that any error during development can be detected early in the SDLC process. PHP is a dynamically typed language. Its main advantage is high developer productivity when developing a web service.
Prototype vs. Class
Programming web services in Java is class-oriented. Inheritance is achieved through specifying objects and classes. On the other hand, PHP is a prototype-based language where inheritance is achieved through reusing objects in development.
Parallel Processes: Comparing PHP and Java Performance
This term is defined as the ability to execute web service components in a certain order. Java is characterized by multithreading, so Java works faster.
About Similarities
However, in some characteristics, both technologies have similarities.
- Object orientation. Both languages are object-oriented, so developers can use code for developing other software.
- Syntax. In these scripts, variables, classes, structures, etc., also have similarities.
- Server-side development of web services — Java and PHP are server-side.
- Entry points — when the program starts, the interpreter or compiler determines when to begin execution.
Security of PHP and Java. Vulnerabilities in Web Services Development
Web services are often developed by programmers who are not well-versed in security issues. Many developers request additional access from their managers, and “less significant” problems such as web service performance and security do not receive proper attention. One reason lies in the quality of developer education and poor textbooks. But the main reason is that writing insecure code is very easy.
Of the four vulnerabilities described in this chapter, the two most popular are SQL injection and cross-site scripting. This type of code is often used as a teaching example because it is a simple and natural way to perform the task of saving something to a database. However, the problem is obvious: the default is unsafe. To perform the same task safely, the web service developer must sanitize input and consider all ways of passing Javascript or SQL into the application.
Although SQL injection, cross-site scripting, command injection, and path manipulation were chosen because they represent only security vulnerabilities detected by Java and PHP static analysis tools, they still include common and important vulnerabilities. SQL injection was (along with others) first in the OWASP Top 10 application security risks in 2020 and second in the 2017 list.
Both Java and PHP are excellent foundations for a wide variety of web services and applications. The choice of language will depend on what you want to develop.
You can control hardware with Java, but it is not a common language for low-level programming because it is a “safer” language. Since Java does not allow certain functions to protect the PC, it is preferred for higher-level applications.
The best way to make a final decision is to publish your project and ask for developers' opinions. They will advise which language is suitable for web services development and help find the right solution.
What is Better for Enterprise Solutions? Java or PHP?
Developing enterprise web services indeed requires many characteristics and attention. Because these applications impact business development, are accessible on demand from different locations, are mission-critical, and involve security issues.
PHP and Java hold a dominant place in implementing enterprise web services, but they are used with varying degrees of efficiency. PHP is easy to learn and apply for beginners in web development. Its XML parser LIBXML2 performs better than Woodstox in Java.
This significantly simplifies information transfer between applications. However, Java is more secure, strongly typed, supports multithreading, and provides better APIs for the enterprise environment, such as the Java Transaction API.
Therefore, if security is one of the main concerns of the enterprise, for a corporate web service or intranet portal, consider using Java. This does not mean PHP is not secure, but unlike PHP, Java's built-in security features do not require additional overhead to enhance the application's security level. This also applies to multithreading.
Overall, it seems that in the future Java will become the most demanded programming language for the corporate environment, unlike PHP.
What to Choose for Web Services Development?
So, if you are just starting to choose a technology for developing your web service or ERP, our experience with Java and PHP will benefit you during the planning stage.
Java developers and PHP specialists work closely with business analysts and project managers to provide the most accurate estimates and compile a list of requirements and specifications for the project. They have extensive experience in financial technology, e-commerce, and other industries, enabling them to offer optimal solutions for implementing and developing your web service.