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Net.Data and WebSphere Application Server: Myths and Realities
There has been a lot of misinformation and confusion in regards to Net.Data, how it compares with WebSphere Application Server, when to use one technology over the other, and the future of Net.Data. This will attempt to set the record straight
The Technologies
Software building blocks for e-business from IBM can help you transform any technology base into a platform for continuous change. Whether you're a dot-com growing from zero- to megasite size, or an enterprise morphing at Internet speed, these software building blocks can help you develop in any direction. Upwards to millions of customers. Outwards across a world of suppliers. Or onwards to whatever the new mission turns out to be. Two such software building blocks are Net.Data and WebSphere Application Server.
Net.Data is a server-side scripting language that extends Web servers by enabling the dynamic generation of Web pages using data from a variety of data sources. The data sources can include relational and non-relational database management systems such as DB2, (DRDA)-enabled databases, and flat file data. Net.Data applications can be rapidly built using a scripting language that is simple yet powerful. Net.Data allows reuse of existing business logic by supporting calls to applications written in a variety of programming languages, including Java, C/C++, RPG, COBOL, CL, REXX and others.
WebSphere Application Server extends existing Web servers by allowing you to implement and manage server-side Java components, such as servlets, enterprise beans, and JavaServer Pages (JSP) files. These Java components can add complex business logic and dynamic functions to static HTML Web pages. Servlets are used to access legacy data and perform programmatic functions. Enterprise beans are used to model more complex data and to process more complex logic, especially transaction-based work. JSP files are used to present dynamic data in a Web interface.
Advantages and Disadvantages
The information in the following tables should give you a good idea of the benefits of both technologies. Be aware that enhancements and improvements are continuously being made to both technologies.
Which Technology To Use?
IBM often provides more than one option to our customers for a broad solution like Web enablement. Some customers want an easy to use yet high performing tool for access to heterogeneous relational data, so Net.Data, which works with DB2, Oracle, etc. is a good choice. Others want a programming model paradigm such as Java, so JDBC, Java support and the new WebSphere products meet that need. Others want to Web enable collaborative data like Lotus Notes, so the Domino product meets their needs. All of these are very valid approaches to meet different requirements.
You as the customer need to decide what is best for you, whether it is Net.Data, Java and WebSphere, Domino, etc. An important point to remember is that you do not have to settle on one technology. It may be the case that in a certain situation you want to use Net.Data, and in another you need to use WebSphere.
It should be noted that IBM considers Java and WebSphere to be strategic and the preferred language and application server, respectively, for developing and running Web-related applications.
The Future
It should be noted that IBM considers Java and WebSphere to be strategic and the preferred language and application server, respectively, for developing and running Web-related applications.
Summary
The Net.Data product is an important part of the IBM internet/e-business portfolio of software products.
The choice between WebSphere or Net.Data is dependent on what direction you want to go. Java? Then choose
WebSphere. You want Java but you have no expertise and want a Web presence now? Start with Net.Data and transition to Java at your own pace. You do not want Java or do not have the time or resources to invest in Java? Choose
Net.Data. |
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