# NaviServer

> web server software

**Wikidata**: [Q1330876](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q1330876)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/NaviServer)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/naviserver

## Summary
NaviServer is a free, open-source web server software distributed under the Mozilla Public License. It is designed to handle dynamic web content and is based on the earlier AOLserver platform, with development led by NaviSoft. The software supports scripting in Tcl and remains actively maintained, with recent stable releases in 2024.

## Key Facts
- **License**: Mozilla Public License.
- **Based on**: AOLserver.
- **Developers**: NaviSoft.
- **Latest Stable Version**: 4.99.31 (released August 11, 2024).
- **Programming Languages**: Tcl (and Q15777, a related identifier).
- **Initial Release Year**: Derived from AOLserver (first released in the 1990s).
- **Repository**: Hosted on SourceForge and GitHub.
- **Copyright Status**: Copyrighted.

## FAQs
### Q: Is NaviServer free to use?
A: Yes, NaviServer is free software licensed under the Mozilla Public License, allowing users to run, modify, and distribute the software.

### Q: What is NaviServer used for?
A: It serves as a web server for hosting websites and applications, particularly those requiring dynamic content management, and is compatible with Tcl scripting.

### Q: Is NaviServer still maintained?
A: Yes, as of 2024, the project remains active, with the latest stable version (4.99.31) released on August 11, 2024.

## Why It Matters
NaviServer plays a role in niche web development environments, especially those leveraging Tcl scripting or migrating from legacy AOLserver setups. As a continuation of AOLserver, it preserves compatibility for older applications while incorporating modern updates. Its open-source nature allows customization, addressing specific server needs that commercial solutions might not meet. Despite its lower profile compared to Apache or Nginx, NaviServer remains relevant for specialized projects requiring lightweight, Tcl-integrated web serving capabilities.

## Notable For
- **AOLserver Legacy**: Direct continuation of AOLserver, ensuring compatibility for legacy applications.
- **Tcl Integration**: Native support for Tcl scripting, a unique feature among web servers.
- **Active Maintenance**: Regular updates, with stable releases as recent as 2024, despite its long history.
- **Open-Source Flexibility**: Mozilla Public License terms enable community-driven customization and distribution.

## Body
### Development History
NaviServer originated as a fork of AOLserver, a web server developed by America Online in the 1990s. NaviSoft led its development, focusing on maintaining compatibility while introducing improvements. The software transitioned to open-source development, with repositories hosted on SourceForge and GitHub.

### Technical Features
- **Scripting Support**: Integrates Tcl for dynamic content generation, a distinctive feature compared to servers like Apache.
- **Modular Architecture**: Designed for scalability and customization, allowing developers to extend functionality through modules.
- **Stability**: Emphasizes reliability for mission-critical applications, inheriting AOLserver’s reputation for robustness.

### Licensing and Availability
Released under the Mozilla Public License (MPL), NaviServer permits free use, modification, and distribution. Source code is accessible via SourceForge and GitHub, with the latest release (4.99.31) published in August 2024. The project’s open governance model encourages community contributions.

### Version History
- **4.99.30**: Released January 26, 2024, as a stable update.
- **4.99.31**: Released August 11, 2024, incorporating bug fixes and minor enhancements.

### Related Technologies
- **Tcl**: Primary scripting language for server-side logic.
- **AOLserver**: Parent project, now superseded by NaviServer for ongoing development.

## References

1. [NaviServer -  Browse /naviserver/4.99.30 at SourceForge.net](https://sourceforge.net/projects/naviserver/files/naviserver/4.99.30/)
2. [Source](https://github.com/naviserver-project/naviserver/blob/release/4.99/NEWS)