What is the difference between Spring and Spring Boot?
Spring is a large framework for building Java applications that gives you features like dependency injection but needs a lot of manual configuration. Spring Boot is built on Spring and adds auto configuration, starter dependencies, and an embedded server to remove that setup. Spring gives you the tools, and Spring Boot makes them easy to use quickly.
- Spring is a broad framework that requires a lot of manual configuration.
- Spring Boot builds on Spring and removes most of that configuration with sensible defaults.
- Spring Boot adds auto configuration, starters, and an embedded server for faster setup.
Quick comparison
- Configuration: Spring is mostly manual, Spring Boot auto configures.
- Server: Spring needs an external server, Spring Boot embeds one.
- Dependencies: Spring Boot starters bundle common libraries together.
- Setup speed: Spring Boot gets you running in minutes.
It is important to say Spring Boot does not replace Spring. It sits on top of it, so you still use core Spring concepts like beans and dependency injection, just with far less configuration.
Avoid saying Spring Boot is a newer version of Spring. The accurate framing is Spring Boot is a layer on top of Spring that removes configuration, which shows you understand how they relate.
Frequently asked questions
Does Spring Boot replace Spring?
No. Spring Boot is built on top of Spring and uses its core features. It simplifies setup rather than replacing the underlying framework.
Can you still configure things manually in Spring Boot?
Yes. Auto configuration provides defaults, but you can override any of them with your own beans or properties whenever you need custom behaviour.
Common follow up questions
Related interview questions
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