Linux giant gives backing to Apache 2

Market-leading Linux distributor Red Hat is launching a new version of its server operating system that includes version 2 of the open source Apache Web server.

Last week Red Hat delivered Personal and Professional editions of version 8 of its Linux distribution.

The Apache Group first launched version 2 of its Web server over a year ago, but so far the product has been viewed by IT staff as a development version that is not suitable for production Web sites. Apache 2 is currently used by less than 0.5 percent of Web sites, compared with 65 percent using Apache 1.x.

Some users have complained that Apache 2's APIs have changed too frequently during the past year, making it virtually impossible for third-party developers to maintain compatibility with their products.

However, as we reported recently, the Apache Group is beginning to stabilise the version 2 software. Another issue affecting Apache 2 is the absence of an easy method for installation.

Many Linux system administrators prefer to use RPM format files to install software rather than the long-established TAR format. RPM format files can automatically install and configure software on a Linux based server.

Last week, Apache developers began working on RPM format versions of Apache 2.

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See also:

Waka leads Apache agenda

The new Waka protocol, designed as a replacement for HTTP 1.1, will take centre stage at this week's ApacheCon developer conference in Las Vegas  18 Nov 2002

Apache builds more solid 2.0 Web server

The Apache Group is considering a 2.1 fork to allow innovative work on the Apache 2 Web server and to encourage uptake of the 2.0 version  19 Sep 2002

Web sites reject Apache 2

Regular changes to the Apache 2 API has developers questioning its usability  05 Sep 2002

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