Best Web Server for WordPress: Apache, Nginx, or LiteSpeed Compared!

Last updated March 18th, 2025 13:19

If you run a website on WordPress or plan to launch one, choosing the right web server is a key decision. The most popular solutions include Apache, Nginx, and LiteSpeed. Each of these servers has its strengths and weaknesses, and the right choice depends on the specific needs of your project. In this article, we will explore their features, performance, and usability in the context of WordPress.

Apache

The Apache HTTP Server is one of the oldest and most widely used web servers in the world. It was created in 1995, and its popularity grew thanks to strong community support and extensive compatibility.

Advantages of Apache server

• Flexibility and modular system – Apache supports a large number of modules that allow for customization of its functionality.
• Easy configuration – With .htaccess files, settings can be easily changed at the directory level.
• Wide compatibility – It supports various operating systems and is often included in shared hosting environments.

Disadvantages of Apache server

• Lower performance under high load – Apache uses a process-based architecture, meaning each connection requires its own process or thread, which can lead to higher memory consumption.
• Weaker scalability – Compared to more modern servers like Nginx and LiteSpeed, Apache may perform worse under a high number of requests.

Nginx

Nginx (pronounced “engine-ex”) was designed for high performance and efficiency. It was introduced in 2004 and has since become the second most widely used web server in the world.

Advantages of Nginx server

• Event-driven architecture – Allows handling thousands of concurrent connections with minimal resource usage.
• Excellent for static content – Nginx is great at serving static files such as images, CSS, and JavaScript.
• Built-in reverse proxy and load balancing – Can efficiently route traffic between multiple backend servers.

Disadvantages of Nginx server

• More complex configuration – Unlike Apache, it does not support .htaccess files, meaning changes must be made in the main configuration file.
• Less modular than Apache – Adding functionality is more complicated and not as flexible as in Apache.

LiteSpeed

LiteSpeed is a modern web server that aims to combine the benefits of Apache and Nginx while introducing its own innovations. It exists in two versions – the paid Enterprise version and the open-source OpenLiteSpeed.

Advantages of LiteSpeed server

• Combination of high performance and compatibility – Uses an event-driven architecture like Nginx but is also compatible with Apache modules.
• Integrated LiteSpeed Cache – This technology is optimized for WordPress and can significantly speed up page loading.
• Low resource consumption – LiteSpeed handles a large number of requests with less strain on the server.

Disadvantages of LiteSpeed server

• Paid license for the full version – To use all the features of LiteSpeed Enterprise, you need to pay a licensing fee.
• OpenLiteSpeed has limited .htaccess support – While it supports most rules, some features may not function the same way as in Apache.

Performance Comparison

According to various tests and benchmarks, LiteSpeed shows the best performance when handling dynamic requests in WordPress. Nginx is highly efficient for static content and reverse proxy, while Apache remains a great choice for users who need flexibility and extensive module support.