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Apache Struts, developed by the Apache Software Foundation, is a robust open-source framework designed for creating Java EE web applications. Renowned for its powerful MVC (Model-View-Controller) architecture, Struts streamlines the development process by separating the application's logic, user interface, and control flow, thereby enhancing maintainability and scalability.

One of the standout features of Apache Struts is its comprehensive tag library, which simplifies the creation of dynamic web pages. These tags allow developers to easily integrate Java code with HTML, making it effortless to manage form data, error messages, and other dynamic content. Additionally, Struts supports various view technologies, including JSP, FreeMarker, and Velocity, offering flexibility in how the user interface is rendered.

Struts also excels in its robust configuration management. The framework employs XML-based configuration files, which provide a clear and organized way to manage application settings, action mappings, and form beans. This approach not only reduces the complexity of the codebase but also makes it easier to modify and extend the application as requirements evolve.

Security is another area where Apache Struts shines. The framework includes built-in mechanisms to protect against common web vulnerabilities such as SQL injection, cross-site scripting (XSS), and cross-site request forgery (CSRF). These security features are crucial for developing enterprise-grade applications that handle sensitive data and require high levels of trust and reliability.

Moreover, Apache Struts is highly extensible. Its plugin architecture allows developers to add new functionalities without altering the core framework. This extensibility is complemented by a vibrant community and a wealth of third-party plugins, which provide additional tools and features to enhance the development experience.

Performance-wise, Struts is optimized for high-traffic applications. Its efficient request handling and caching mechanisms ensure that applications built with Struts can handle a large number of concurrent users without compromising on speed or responsiveness.

In terms of documentation and support, Apache Struts offers extensive resources, including detailed guides, tutorials, and a dedicated user mailing list. The active community around Struts ensures that developers can find help and share knowledge, making it easier to overcome challenges and implement best practices.

In summary, Apache Struts is a mature and versatile framework that empowers developers to build robust, secure, and high-performing Java EE web applications. Its clear separation of concerns, extensive tag library, robust configuration management, and strong security features make it a preferred choice for enterprises and developers seeking a reliable and scalable solution. Whether you are developing a small web application or a large-scale enterprise system, Apache Struts provides the tools and flexibility needed to succeed.