Network, Computer and Programming Resources

Network - CGI (Common Gateway Interface)

An interface specification that defines the rules of communication between information servers, such as HTTP (Hypertext Transport Protocol) servers on the World Wide Web and gateway programs. More specifically, the CGI is used when such a server needs to pass a user request to a gateway program. Being able to pass work off to the gateway program helps take some of the workload off the server. The gateway program is generally designed to provide a mechanism for getting input from a user-for example, so an authorized user can complete an authentication form in order to get access to restricted areas. Among other things, the CGI specifi- cations define the mechanisms by which information can pass from the server to the gateway program and back. The CGI specifications, along with many of the other specifications related to HTTP environments, are still undergoing revisions. PRIMARY SOURCES You can find the current form of the CGI specifications at http://hoohoo.ncsa.uiuc.edu.cgi/ overview.html