Apache Server: How to obtain the maximum performance from a first class web server
In this article we are going to talk about some important issues that you need have in mind to obtain better results in the practice of configuring and administering your Apache Server.
Apache Server is known around the world as an advanced open source web-solution based on HTTP server implementation. Since a long time Apache has been the most popular web server in the Internet with more than the 70% of web sites using it as main server. This popularity is due to the quality, stability and robustness of this first-class web server. Apache is fast and works without problems but many there are developers who aren’t getting the most out of Apache Server. With Apache HTTP server you have available a modular software where the administrator have the privilege to select the function to be included in the server.
However, in your web server you can optimize some elements such the hardware (adding more RAM or configuring the array of discs in your server) that we assume that your hardware resources are enough to run a web server. But regardless the hardware and software, the most significant element to get the maximum performance of your web server under Apache, is the custom configuration of this server. Also, it is important to determine which operating system you are using. In my opinion I recommend Linux (Ubuntu or Fedora).
When you are running Apache is important that you only use the modules required. Sometimes administrators load all the modules and the performance of the server is affected. If your application requires only one module you will obtain amazing results just using the module you need. Other important issue is the “MPMs” (Multi-processing modules) which are the responsible to administer the behavior of the ports in the web server and manage the requests. Also you ca select only one “MPM” at time and the selection of it depends of several factors such as Operating System that can/can’t support multi-threads, the availability of the memory, scalability versus stability and others.
Furthermore, you have to check all the settings of the run-time configuration option and assure that is suitable for you. For instance content negotiation is something that too many people ignore. You must have to avoid the content negotiation for obtain a fast response. If you don’t require it don’t use it. I will boost your server significantly.
We recommend you study well all about the Apache Server because a better performance has a close relation with your level of understanding of it. There’s no fast tips you have to invest time understanding the different configurations and applying them to your specific needs. I read a lot of forums in the internet where people desire t get things they aren’t ready to do.
