Understanding configuration

To recognize the different sets of requirements that apply to application configuration before and after the application has been deployed in the operational environment, configuration is divided up into two categories: static and dynamic.

• Static—Usually new code or resources can be added as a result of changing static configuration. Consequently, the application would have to be rebuilt, retested, and redeployed. Static configuration setting can be changed through the Configuration and Management system, but changed values will only take effect after you restart the application server.
• Dynamic—Configuration that controls the behavior of the application while operational is considered to be dynamic. The application observes and reacts to changes in its dynamic configuration without having to be rebuilt, retested, or redeployed. Changes in dynamic configuration do not result in application resources having to be added, changed, or removed.