The freeware Apache Web server runs on about half of the world's existing Web sites (in 2000), and it is rapidly increasing in popularity. This text, written and reviewed by key members of the Apache Group, is a complete guide describing how to obtain, set up, and secure the Apache software. Apache was originally based on code and ideas found in the most popular HTTP server of the time: NCSA httpd 1.3 (early 1995). It has since evolved into a far superior system that can rival (and probably surpass) almost any other UNIX-based HTTP server in terms of functionality, efficiency, and speed. The new version now includes support for Win32 systems. This second edition of "Apache: The Definitive Guide" fully describes Windows support and all the other Apache 1.3 features. Contents include: the history of the Apache Group; obtaining and compiling the server; configuring and running Apache on UNIX and Windows, including such topics as directory structures, virtual hosts, and CGI programming; the Apache 1.3 Module API; Apache security; a complete list of configuration directives; and a complete demo of a sample Website.