Skip to main content

Apache

Apache Web Server is open-source software developed by the Apache Software Foundation. This server is responsible for receiving requests from clients using the HTTP/HTTPS protocol, processing them, and returning responses in the form of web pages to the client. Apache has been around since 1995 and is known for its stability, flexibility, and extensive customization capabilities.

Apache supports various operating systems such as Linux, Unix, Windows, and macOS, and is compatible with various programming languages such as PHP, Python, and Perl.

Main Functions of Apache Web Server in the Web Ecosystem​

Apache is more than just a tool for delivering web pages. Its main functions include:

  • Serving Web Content: Apache responds to browser requests by sending HTML pages, media files, or other data responses.
  • Handling HTTP and HTTPS Requests: Apache supports secure connections via the HTTPS protocol with SSL/TLS support.
  • Virtual Hosting: The ability to serve multiple domains on a single physical server.
  • Modularization: Apache uses a module system to add features such as authentication, cache management, URL processing, and even attack protection.
  • Logging and Monitoring: Apache provides access logs and error logs to monitor traffic and diagnose problems.

Apache excels at handling multiple websites on a single physical server with its Virtual Host feature. There are two types of virtual hosts:

  • Name-based Virtual Host: A single IP address is used to serve multiple domains.
  • IP-based Virtual Host: Each domain uses a different IP address.

This configuration is ideal for hosting providers, web developers, and system administrators who manage multiple websites simultaneously.

How the Apache Web Server Serves Web Pages​

Apache works based on a request-response architecture. The process includes:

  1. The client browser sends an HTTP request to the server.
  2. Apache receives the request and determines which files are needed (HTML, PHP, etc.).
  3. If necessary, Apache invokes an external interpreter (e.g., PHP-FPM) to process the dynamic files.
  4. Apache sends an HTTP response back to the client browser.
  5. The client displays the content based on the server's response.

Apache supports two main processing models: prefork (each request is handled by a new process) and worker/event MPM (more efficient using threads).

Apache vs. Nginx: Which is Better?​

While Nginx is known to be lighter and faster for static files, Apache still excels in flexibility and compatibility with legacy systems. Some of Apache's advantages:

  • Per-directory configuration with .htaccess.
  • Native support for programming languages like PHP.
  • Easier to configure for beginners.

For hybrid or combination server needs (Nginx reverse proxy + Apache backend), Apache remains a reliable component. Apache is highly compatible with various Content Management Systems (CMS) such as:

  • WordPress
  • Drupal
  • Joomla

This is because Apache can easily handle URL rewriting and supports the .htaccess file commonly used by CMSs.

Despite the emergence of many new web servers, Apache remains the primary choice due to:

  • High stability for enterprise applications.
  • Wide support on various Linux distributions such as AlmaLinux, Debian, and Ubuntu.
  • Ease of setup for small to large-scale sites.
  • Wide compatibility with third-party software.

Conclusion​

Apache Web Server is the foundation of the modern web. With its high flexibility, modularity, broad support, and high compatibility, Apache remains a solid choice for a web server. Its uses range from personal blogs and enterprise applications to large-scale cloud deployments.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

  1. Is Apache still relevant this year? Yes, Apache is still very relevant, especially for users who need high flexibility and compatibility with PHP-based applications.

  2. What is the difference between Apache and Nginx? Apache is more flexible in terms of configuration, while Nginx excels at handling static files and load balancing.

  3. Is Apache suitable for beginners? Very suitable. Extensive documentation and an active community make Apache friendly for both beginners and professionals.

  4. How do I install Apache on AlmaLinux? Use the command dnf install httpd in the terminal, then enable it with systemctl enable --now httpd.