PHP Apache Module Editor's Review

PHP Apache Module for Apache 1.3 represents an add-on for your built in Apache Web Server.

The producer think about the fact that installing the PHP modules is not an easy job especially if you are not accustomed with the writing the configuration files. Learning how to do a job like this usually takes time so, a package like this is a time saver because all you have to do is download and install it.

Before proceeding with the installation, it is recommended to enable your built in Apache server (if it isn't enabled). You can do that very easily from the 'System Preferences' panel from the 'Sharing' options. Unlock the panel, check the 'Personal Web Sharing' flag and that's it. The Apache Web Server is enabled and running.

The module comes as an installer package, so the installation won't give you any headaches. After installing it you can test its functionality. You can see the testing in my screenshots where I used the $_SERVER array output and the phpinfo(); output.

The package includes support for a lot of extensions such as the support for SQL servers. If everything is OK, then you may start to develop/host a small site. If you need a SQL server, then you may try, from the same producer, PostgreSQL Server, or if you would like to use another database server, you can always try MySQL Server. If you are an Apache 2 user, then this PHP build isn't compatible with this one. You should try the PHP Apache Module for Apache 2. This Apache 2 module works in the same way as the Apache v1.3 module.

Pluses: is an easy-to-install PHP module for your built in Apache Web server.

Drawbacks / flaws:

In conclusion: if you don't like wasting time writing configuration files in order to install a PHP module for small activities, then this is a bright solution.

version reviewed: 5.16 (for Apache v1.3)