Nginx and Apache are both popular web servers that are widely used to serve static and dynamic web content. Here are some key differences between the two:

1. Architecture: Nginx is designed to be a high-performance, low-resource web server that excels at serving static content and reverse proxying to other servers. Apache, on the other hand, is a more traditional web server that is designed to be highly configurable and flexible, with support for a wide range of modules and extensions.
2. Performance: Nginx is often faster and more efficient than Apache, especially when it comes to serving static content. This is because Nginx uses an event-driven, non-blocking architecture that can handle many more connections simultaneously than Apache, which uses a process-based, blocking architecture.
3. Configuration: Apache is known for its powerful and flexible configuration options, which allow for a high degree of customization and control. Nginx, while still highly configurable, uses a simpler and more streamlined configuration syntax.
4. Load balancing: Nginx has built-in support for load balancing and can distribute incoming requests to multiple servers, whereas Apache requires additional modules to achieve the same functionality.
5. Security: Both Nginx and Apache have strong security features, but Nginx is often considered more secure due to its smaller codebase and more minimalist design.

In summary, Nginx is often preferred for its speed, efficiency, and built-in load balancing, while Apache is favored for its flexibility and powerful configuration options. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on the specific needs and priorities of your web application.