Apache configuration

Apache web server is one of the most popular implementations of web server on UNIX-like operating systems. As of February 2010, Apache served over 54 percent of all websites on the Internet. It is a stable and reliable software recommended for both high and small load websites. It is easily configurable and highly flexible because it features modular design which permits to use only parts of the functionality that we really need. This reduces memory footprint and makes server faster to operate and respond. We still must be sure that it is properly configured in terms of basic functionality and security.

Where to start

When attackers want to infiltrate a website they start first by probing for server information. If not properly configured, a web-server can expose sufficient information to the prying eye that can enable the attacker to find a security hole and access private data or services.

All communication between the web browser and web server is performed according...