How to choose between JAX-RS and JAX-WS web services implementation?

Question

In what contexts is it better to use one over the other and why?

Thanks!

Solution 1

JAX-WS is an API for SOAP-based WS, and using it for RESTful WebServices is not the best way to go about things.

So if you're looking to implement a RESTful WebService, use JAX-RS .

Solution 2

I feel like Web services are mostly tied for UDDI type applications. REST is just a plain evolution to make stateless http protocol to stateful thing by using http method communications for doing CRUD operations. Like mapping operations to methods GET, PUT, POST and DELETE.

Web Services are into coding for Airplane ticket reservation systems, Online banking, payment gateways, etc. Where there are a set of standard systems expose their API in some definitions. The JAX-RS is for providing some light weight layer for resources...

Comments

[Janus Troelsen]

it looks like JAX-RS 2 is contained in JAX-WS. see jax-rs-spec.java.net/nonav/2.0/apidocs/index.html . what do I make of this?

[To Kra]

dont really understand your words "Normal people can not achieve such things using plain JAX-RS.."

[Siva Tumma]

I meant JAX-RS is not meant to solve what Web Services is used for in a full manner.

[To Kra]

You should read this blog.smartbear.com/apis/understanding-soap-and-rest-basics