What is Software Stack?

A Software Stack, also known as a solution stack, defines the collection of independent components that engineers utilize in software development. 

Let’s have a look at the most basic example. Operating systems (OS) within computers enable internet browsers to send and receive information in order to function properly. Furthermore, that same internet browser won’t be able to load websites without the web server.

Besides, you’re reading this because you have access to the internet. To browse the internet, you opened up a web browser such as Google Chrome or Apple Safari. These web browsers transfer information through the Internet Protocol (IP). The transmission control protocol (TCP) that’s within the IP suite continues to send over the information. The latter is within the Network Access Layer which is within the Ethernet. Every layer collaborates in order to perform its function. In this case, it’s to open the internet browser and load content. 

This means that each and every layer is connected and can easily send messages to each other. 

There are a lot of different software stacks on the market today. 

The most popular software development solution at the moment is the MEAN Stack. Its name is derived from MongoDB, Express, AngularJS, and Node.js - the main open-source technologies that this software stack utilizes. 

A similar solution is the MERN Stack. It stands for MongoDB, Express, React, and Node.js. This software stack trades AngularJS for React. The development of applications is said to be much smoother with the MERN stack.

Another well-known option is the LAMP Stack which facilitates Linux, Apache, MySQL, and PHP. All of these open-source technologies can be considered classics as they have been around for a long time. Over 25% of all websites have used LAMP. 

Now, if you’re looking for the term software stack, you probably bumped into a similar term - a technology stack aka tech stack. The main area where the software stack and tech stack differ is their software components.

A tech stack has a much more limited number of components than a software stack. Generally, it includes the hardware, middleware, and an operating system (OS). While the software stack has a much broader list including databases, protocols, runtime environments, various programming languages, and many other components. 

Essentially, a tech stack utilizes its technologies to build something for a company. For example, to develop new products or provide additional services.