Definition
Apache HTTP Server is a free, open-source web server software developed and maintained by the Apache Software Foundation. It serves web content to users by processing HTTP requests and delivering web pages, files, and applications over the internet. Apache is known for its flexibility, security features, and extensive module system that allows for customization and extended functionality.
Key Features
Runs on various operating systems including Linux, Windows, macOS, and Unix variants.
Extensible through modules for SSL, authentication, URL rewriting, and more.
Supports multiple websites on a single server with different domain names.
Built-in security modules for authentication, authorization, and SSL/TLS encryption.
Basic Configuration Example
# Basic Apache Virtual Host Configuration
<VirtualHost *:80>
ServerName example.com
ServerAlias www.example.com
DocumentRoot /var/www/html/example
<Directory /var/www/html/example>
AllowOverride All
Require all granted
</Directory>
ErrorLog ${APACHE_LOG_DIR}/example_error.log
CustomLog ${APACHE_LOG_DIR}/example_access.log combined
</VirtualHost>
# Enable SSL
<VirtualHost *:443>
ServerName example.com
DocumentRoot /var/www/html/example
SSLEngine on
SSLCertificateFile /path/to/certificate.crt
SSLCertificateKeyFile /path/to/private.key
</VirtualHost>
Career Impact
Learning Path
- Installation & Setup: Learn to install Apache on different operating systems
- Configuration: Master httpd.conf and virtual host configurations
- Security: Implement SSL/TLS, authentication, and security best practices
- Performance: Optimize Apache for high-traffic websites
- Modules: Work with popular modules like mod_rewrite, mod_ssl
- Monitoring: Set up logging, monitoring, and troubleshooting