• 03 Nov 2025

How to Install JasperReports Server: A Step-by-Step Guide

JasperReports Server (also known as JasperSoft Report Server) is a robust, open-source, and scalable business intelligence platform that enables organizations to create, manage, and distribute detailed reports and dashboards. It supports interactive data visualization, analytics, and report generation—making it an indispensable tool for data-driven decision-making.

DataTerrain, a leading BI automation and migration specialist, leverages advanced deployment and configuration automation to simplify the setup of JasperReports Server for enterprises. This guide explains how to install JasperReports Server, configure your environment, and ensure it runs efficiently.

Installation Requirements for JasperReports Server

Before you begin the Jasper server download or installation, ensure your system meets the following requirements:

1. Java Development Kit (JDK)

JasperReports Server requires JDK 8. Ensure the JAVA_HOME environment variable is correctly configured; the server must function properly.

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Installation of Jaspersoft Report Server

2. Database System

The JasperSoft Report Server supports popular databases, including PostgreSQL, MySQL, and Oracle. While the installer includes PostgreSQL by default, you can use an existing external database if preferred.

3. Optional Application Server

By default, JasperReports Server comes with Apache Tomcat. However, you can deploy it on a custom application server such as JBoss or a separate Tomcat installation for better control and scalability.

Methodical Installation of JasperReports Server

There are two main methods for installing JasperReports Server :

  1. Binary installer method
  2. Manual WAR file deployment

We’ll go through both approaches step by step.

Step 1: Download JasperReports Server

Visit the official Jaspersoft community site and choose the appropriate package for your operating system. If you are using the open-source version, select the JasperServer Community edition download option. Enterprise users can opt for the JasperReports Server Enterprise Edition.

Step 2: Launch the Binary Installer

The binary installer simplifies the process by including both PostgreSQL and Apache Tomcat.

After completing the Jasper server download, run the installer suitable for your platform.

Step 3: Extract and Install

After downloading, follow these steps:

  • On Linux/Unix:
    Navigate to the installer directory and execute: ./js-install.sh
  • On Windows:
    Open Command Prompt and run: js-install.bat

During installation, choose whether to use the included PostgreSQL or an external database. The installer will automatically deploy JasperReports Server, Tomcat, and the database configuration.

Setting Up an External Database

If you prefer using an external database such as MySQL, Oracle, or SQL Server, proceed as follows:

  1. Navigate to the buildomatic folder inside your JasperReports Server directory.
  2. Edit the default_master.properties file to include your database connection details.
  3. Run the command: ./js-ant create-js-db

This process sets up the database schema and tables necessary for JasperReports Server.

Deploying JasperReports Server in a Web Container

For users deploying the JasperSoft Report Server manually in an existing application server:

  1. Copy the WAR files from the buildomatic folder into your web container’s webapps directory.
  2. Add the required database drivers (e.g., MySQL Connector /J ) into the web container’s lib directory.
  3. Restart your web container and access JasperReports Server at: http://localhost:8080/jasperserver

Post-Installation Configuration

Once installed, perform the following configurations to optimize security and performance.

1. Change Default Login Credentials

Log in using:

  • Username : superuser
  • Password : superuser

Immediately update these credentials for enhanced security.

2. Configure Email Settings

To enable report scheduling and delivery via email, update the SMTP configurations in the js.quartz.properties file located in the WEB-INF directory.

3. Strengthen Security

  • Change all preset passwords.
  • Enable SSL/HTTPS in Tomcat or your web server.
  • Define user roles and permissions to ensure access control.
  • If using an external database, rerun: ./js-ant create-js-db to finalize database configurations.

Optimizing JasperReports Server Performance

For production environments, adjust Tomcat’s JAVA_OPTS parameters to allocate sufficient RAM.

You can also tune database connection pools and configure caching to improve dashboard rendering performance.

Conclusion

Installing and configuring JasperReports Server (or JasperSoft Report Server) is a structured process involving environment setup, database configuration, and security hardening. By following these steps, organizations can deploy a reliable reporting and analytics environment tailored to their business needs.

DataTerrain has partnered with more than 360 clients across the U.S., delivering automated BI migration, report conversion, and ETL optimization solutions. Our expertise ensures smooth transitions from legacy BI tools to advanced platforms like Jaspersoft, Cognos, and Power BI, helping enterprises unlock greater reporting accuracy, scalability, and performance.