LiteSpeed vs Apache — Which Web Server Is Best for WordPress?

Explore the key differences between LiteSpeed and Apache: performance, caching, security, and resource usage — to help you choose the right server for your WordPress website.

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What Makes LiteSpeed Different from Apache?

Architecture: LiteSpeed uses an event-driven model for higher concurrency; Apache uses a process/thread-based model, which uses more resources under load.
Caching: LiteSpeed has built-in LSCache optimized for WordPress; Apache relies on external cache plugins like W3 Total Cache or WP Rocket. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
Performance: Benchmarks show LiteSpeed handles up to 5–6× more requests/sec than Apache; LiteSpeed can be 84× faster for HTTP/2 WordPress requests. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
Compatibility: LiteSpeed supports Apache configs (like .htaccess and mod_rewrite), making migration easier. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
Security: LiteSpeed includes anti-DDoS tools and native HTTP/3 support; Apache security requires manual setup. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
Licensing: Apache is fully open-source; LiteSpeed is proprietary—free for limited use but paid licenses unlock full features. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}

Real-World Benchmark Results

In a large file transfer test with 50 concurrent users, LiteSpeed delivered ~129 MB/sec vs Apache’s ~103 MB/sec—with ~18% lower latency. LiteSpeed matched Nginx (≈ 129 MB/sec). :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}

Under WordPress HTTP/2 tests, LiteSpeed handled up to 69,600 requests/sec, compared to Apache’s 826 req/sec—a performance difference of up to 84×. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}

Pros & Cons of Each Server

LiteSpeed

Exceptional caching and PHP performance
Supports .htaccess and Apache compatibility
Built‑in HTTP/3, anti‑DDoS

Apache

Fully open source and free
Massive support community and flexibility
Easy to find documentation & modules

For most WordPress sites—especially high‑traffic or performance-focused ones—**LiteSpeed with LSCache** offers faster speeds, stronger caching, and better resource efficiency than Apache. For basic, low‑traffic sites or those on minimal budget, **Apache** remains a reliable and flexible choice.

✅ Choose LiteSpeed Hosting on Hostinger Explore Apache Hosting Options

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is LiteSpeed always faster than Apache?
A: Yes, benchmarks show LiteSpeed handles significantly more requests per second and lower latency compared to Apache in both static and WordPress tests. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}

Q: Does Apache still support WordPress well?
A: Absolutely—it’s widely used and supports .htaccess, PHP‑FPM caching, and is very stable.

Q: Can I migrate from Apache to LiteSpeed easily?
A: Yes—LiteSpeed is drop‑in compatible with Apache configs, allowing seamless transition. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}