Apache Cookbook: Solutions and Examples for Apache Administrators

There's good examples - you expect that with a name like "cookbook". But each example is backed-up with excellent explanations and references. The particular problems I've wanted to solve haven't matched the book's examples, but they've been close enough to adapt the solutions to what I've needed.

I've also appreciated how much this book has helped me how to *think* in Apache. Its use of examples and explanations helps to paint a top-down view of Apache, and help me analyze problems methodically instead of hunt-and-peck through a flock of random configuration parameters.

A nice combination of technical know-how, tuturial, and clear writing makes this a darned useful book for me.


A set of over 100 common problems faced by Apache handlers   February 13, 2004
Charles Ashbacher (Marion, Iowa United States(cashbacher@yahoo.com))
6 out of 6 found this review helpful

Apache is the most widely used web server in the world, which is a tribute to everyone who has worked to make it a success. It is also open source, which means that the creators and maintainers largely do their tasks for pride and bragging rights rather than for monetary gain. Ironically, the reservation that most people express over open source is the fear that there will be no one to answer the inevitable questions concerning how to get it to work right.
This book is a collection of problems and solutions to those problems regarding the customization of Apache after it has been installed. Situations such as restricting access to files, installing SSL, dealing with passwords, working with URLs, security issues, logging events and error handling are examined. Each entry starts with the statement of the problem, the command(s) or code to effect a solution and an explanation of the problem and why the commands are a solution. Pointers to additional information such as books and web sites are also listed at the end of each entry. Where applicable, differences between versions 1.3 and 2.0 are described.
Obviously, not every problem that can arise when Apache is running can be covered in a book of 223 pages. Nevertheless, the authors have put together a very valuable collection of over 100 of the most common problems encountered by Apache system administrators. If you are tasked with keeping an Apache server up and serving, then this is a book that you must have. It will also help alleviate the logical reservations you may have about relying on open source software.


Great Apache Resource   May 2, 2008
Daniel McKinnon (Tewksbury, MA USA)
2 out of 2 found this review helpful

Some of the reviews for 'Apache Cookbook: Solutions and Examples for Apache Administrators' have stated that this book is a little too basic and simple for Apache administrators out in the world, but I would disagree. Apache is a solid technology that has proven it's mettle in the world for many many many years but there aren't a whole lot of books out on the market for it. It is of this reviewers opinion that even if some individuals feel this book is too simplistic that ANY book on the market that covers Apache would have to be pretty poor to get a negative mark. With over 200 tidbits of information that cover the gambit of Installation, Module creation, Logging, Security, Virtual Hosts, Aliases, SSL, Error Handling, Performance, etc. etc. etc. this is a solid text. Unlike other bloated books this one clocks in at under 300 pages and the tidbits are short and to the point. If you are an Apache admin there is definitely something that you can get from this cookbook so get out the bowl, eggs, flour and start cooking!!

***** RECOMMENDED


Great Resource!   April 27, 2008
Aleksandar Gargenta (San Francisco, CA USA)
Apache Cookbook is a great resource on various best-practice tips and tricks on how to setup and run Apache HTTP server day to day.

The included HOW-TO recipes are:
* Extremely practical and relevant
* Easy to follow and implement
* Well-explained so that not only do you know what you are doing, but also why you are doing it
* Neatly categorized and indexed so that they are easy to find when needed

While this book can be very useful to Apache novices, people who would benefit the most from it are the ones who've had some previous exposure to Apache administration and are familiar with the basic concepts behind Apache (configuration files, included programs, modules, directives, sections, and such).

If you are an Apache administrator, this book ought to be on your bookshelf.


Cooking with Apache   September 2, 2008
Joseph A. Nagy Jr. (McMinnville, TN)
The Apache Cookbook is a must have for anyone considering running their own Apache web server. It covers every major feature of Apache and does so without giving too information to the new user while giving more experienced users the guidance to go off on their own and become Apache power users in their own right.