Web containers and servlet support: does the standalone Apache HTTP Server “not support servlets”? Evaluate the statement considering common integration with servlet containers such as Apache Tomcat.

Introduction / Context:
This item distinguishes between a plain web server (Apache HTTP Server, often called “httpd”) and a Java servlet container (for example, Apache Tomcat). Understanding the boundary between static HTTP serving and Java servlet execution is vital for architecture and deployment decisions.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The statement says: “Apache Web server does not support servlets.”
• “Apache Web server” refers to Apache HTTP Server, not Tomcat.
• Real-world setups often combine Apache HTTP Server and Tomcat via connectors.

Concept / Approach:
Apache HTTP Server does not natively execute Java servlets. Servlets run inside a servlet container compliant with the Java Servlet specification. However, Apache can front and forward requests to Tomcat using connectors such as mod_jk, mod_proxy_ajp, or mod_proxy_http. In practice, Apache participates in serving servlet-based applications through this integration, so the absolute statement “does not support servlets” is misleading and therefore incorrect.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Typical production stacks use Apache for static content and SSL termination, forwarding dynamic servlet requests to Tomcat/Jetty/Payara.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• “Never runs any servlet in any configuration” ignores common Apache–Tomcat setups.
• OS, HTTP/2, or keep-alive settings do not determine servlet support.

Common Pitfalls:
Equating Apache HTTP Server with Tomcat; assuming “support” means “executes directly” rather than “supports through integration.”

Final Answer:
Invalid (Apache can serve servlets via integration with a servlet container)