chapter one

1 Spring in the real world

 

This chapter covers

  • What a framework is
  • When to use and when to avoid using frameworks
  • What the Spring framework is
  • Using Spring in real-world scenarios

The Spring framework (shortly, Spring) is an application framework that is built for the Java/JVM ecosystem. We use Spring in the development of many kinds of applications nowadays, from large backend solutions to automation testing apps. According to many survey reports on Java technologies, Spring is the most used Java framework today.

Our focus in this book is on the foundations of Spring, and I’ll teach you essential skills for using Spring in real-world examples. To make the subject more comfortable for you and allow you to focus on Spring, we’ll use only Java examples.

Throughout the book, we’ll discuss and apply, with examples, essential skills like connecting to a database, establishing communication between applications, and securing and testing an app. However, what you learn here is independent from the JVM language we use. So, you’ll be able to apply the same knowledge you learn with Kotlin, for example.

Before diving into more technical details, let’s talk about the Spring framework and where you’ll actually use it. Why is Spring so appreciated, and when should you even use it?

1.1 Why should we use frameworks?

1.2 The Spring ecosystem

1.3 Spring in real-world scenarios

1.3.1 Using Spring in the development of a backend app

1.3.2 Using Spring in an automation test app

1.3.3 Using Spring for the development of a desktop app

1.4 When not to use frameworks

1.4.1 You need to have a small footprint

1.4.2 Security needs dictate custom code

1.4.3 Abundant existing customizations make a framework impractical

1.4.4 You won’t benefit from switching to a framework

1.5 What will you learn in this book

1.6 Questions

1.7 Summary