An embedded HTTP server is a component of a software system that implements the HTTP protocol. Examples of usage within an application might be:
- To provide a thin client interface for a traditional application..
- To provide indexing, reporting, and debugging tools during the development stage.
- To implement a protocol for the distribution and acquisition of information to be displayed in the regular interface — possibly a web service, and possibly using XML as the data format.
- To develop a web application
There are a few advantages to using HTTP to perform the above:
- HTTP is a well studied cross-platform protocol and there are mature implementations freely available.
- HTTP is seldom blocked by firewalls and intranet routers.
- HTTP clients (e.g. web browsers) are readily available with all modern computers.
- There is a growing tendency of using embedded HTTP servers in applications that parallels the rising trends of home-networking and ubiquitous computing.
Read more about Embedded HTTP Server: Typical Requirements
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