PRACE

Web Servers - Apache and PHP

As well as software for the desktop, there is free software to run servers - the computers that serve up web pages to your browser.

Most of the world's web pages are served up on Apache - an Open Source web server program. Many people have been making web sites using an (open source) programming language called PHP, in concert with an (open source) database called MySQL.

The acronym LAMP refers to a very common web server combination of Linux, Apache, MySQL and PHP - four open source tools to produce flexible and affordable solutions for web programmers. (Good article about migrating to a LAMP system.)

Web programming Languages

For people who need "web application" software, PHP is already one of the most popular programming languagues - as a plugin for any web server. If you have access to a PHP-enabled web space - and the 'know-how', you can install your own freely-available "portal", bulletin board, learning environment and more.

However, often you don't have to learn the programming language - the programs are usually self-contained, and increasingly come with 'installer' pages.

Script Freebies

Here's where the real fun starts - if you have a head for code, or a programmer on your design team. There are very many places online where you'll find free scripts for doing all sorts of stuff to enhance the online learning experience. Two of the best are hotScripts and phpFreaks

(Free web space such as the Vicnet community deal, or Yahoo geocities, is not PHP-enabled - while there are a few free web servers that offer PHP, mostly it's by paying for space that you'll get access.)

Apache web server

PHP.net - one home of PHP

migrating to "LAMP"

phpFreaks

hotScripts

Free web space@ Vicnet

& Yahoo geocities

Adult Language & Literacy Learning - meets - Online & Open Source - Flexible Learning Leaders (FLL03)

[About open source] . . [GNU/Linux] . . [Licensing spectrum] . . [Collaborative learning] . . (= Server Softwares =) ~:~ [Desktop softwares] . . [Other freebies] . . [Add your comments] . . [or send a message] . .

* PageTurners * Snakes Alive! * English at the Beach *

How to contact us at Preston/Reservoir Adult Community Education (PRACE)

Physical: Merrilands Community Centre, cnr Asquith & Sturdee Streets, Reservoir, 3073.

Postal: PO Box 510
Reservoir, 3073.

Phone: 9462 6077
Fax: 9462 5077
Email: officeprace.vic.edu.au
Web: prace.vic.edu.au