Apache Server for Dummies

Features

• Cover Type: Paperback with 355 pages
• Published by: For Dummies January 1998
• Written in: English
• ISBN 10 Number: 0764502913
• ISBN 13 Number: 978-0764502910
• Book Dimensions: 9.2 x 7.4 x 0.9 inches
• Weighs: 1.5 pounds

Product Description
Novice and veteran Webmasters alike should have a copy of Apache Server For Dummies by their computer. This comprehensive guide helps you understand and maximize the capabilities of Apache, one of the most popular and powerful Web servers in use today.

Apache Server For Dummies is your blueprint to providing dynamic content on the Web with Apache. Topics covered include installing the Apache Web server, using CGI and Perl scripts, creating password-protected Web pages, troubleshooting, documenting access to your Web server, and monitoring server activity.

The CD-ROM that accompanies Apache Server For Dummies features the latest version of the Apache Web server software, the GNU ANSI C compiler, debugging tools and utilities, reference materials, and much more.

Back Cover Copy
"Even the novice Webmaster can use the power of the most widely used Web server software in the universe: Apache." - Jim Jagielski, Apache Group Member and Owner of jaguNET Access Services

Free Apache Server "Cheat Sheet" Inside!

Whether you're a novice or an experienced Webmaster interested in setting up an Internet or intranet, this book is for you. Apache Server For Dummies® helps you understand the details of providing Web content with the terrifically popular Apache Web Server. You will quickly and easily find out how to install and configure Apache, take control of the command-line environment, and set up your own piece of the Net. Valuable Bonus CD Includes:

• Apache 1.3: A Web server for UNIX and LINUX users
• GNU GZIP: A UNIX utility to compress your files and save space
• GNU C Compiler: Build UNIX Apache Web server software from scratch
• Lynx Character Cell Web Browser: A UNIX Web browser for terminals

Shareware programs are fully functional, free trial versions of copyrighted programs. If you like particular programs, register with their authors for a nominal fee and receive licenses, enhanced versions, and technical support. Freeware programs are free, copyrighted games, applications, and utilities. You can copy them to as many PCs as you like - free - but they have no technical support. System Requirements: For Apache 1.3 - UNIX or LINUX operating system; (486/66 processor or higher; 32MB RAM); 100MB free hard disk space; and a CD-ROM drive. For LINUX operating system - LINUX-compatible PC with CD-ROM drive and 3 1/2″ disk drive.

Inside, find helpful advice on how to:

• Install the Apache Web server
• Create your Web document hierarchy
• Use CGI and Perl scripts with Apache
• Set up password-protected Web pages
• Use the Apache Web server to make your system look like multiple Web sites
• Troubleshoot problems with your Apache Web server
• Record accesses to your Web server
• Monitor your Apache Web server's activity

Reader Reviews
Open source projects are hot right now and for good reason. At this point in time, the only two serious adversaries that Microsoft appears to have are the United States Department of Justice and Linux, the open source operating system. With those lights shining so bright, it is easy to miss another major open source project, the Apache server. According to the latest survey, slightly over 60% of sites are currently using it. Given this market share, obtaining some knowledge about Apache is clearly a good career move. I am generally impressed by the "for Dummies" series. When you need to learn the basics of a new area literally overnight, (perhaps overhour is more appropriate), there is rarely something better available. However, these books generally have a weakness, in that after the first pass, there is no need for the book, as it is of little value as a reference. While that criticism can also be leveled against this book, it must be muted. Although no one would seriously claim that the book could serve as a major reference, it does have value as a quick check of the more routine questions. While I concede that my knowledge of Apache was weak, that does not change the fact that I learned more from this book than I have from any of the other books in this series. Ken Coar is excellent at explaining the basics of how Apache operates and how the Apache network keeps things moving forward. Each of the basic tasks that a webmaster would be expected to do are outlined and sample configuration files are listed where appropriate. With beta versions of both Linux/Unix and Windows 95/NT on the CD, you also have the opportunity to peek under the hood and see what makes it so popular. The only major negative is that the material is somewhat dated. With a market share in excess of 60% and growing, Apache is reaching the levels normally reserved for monopolies. Which brings up an interesting legal question. Can an open source group be considered a monopoly?