“http-server” is a simple yet powerful command-line tool used to create a static HTTP server for serving static files over the HTTP protocol. It provides a straightforward way to serve files such as HTML, CSS, JavaScript, images, and other static assets from a local directory. Here are some key features and aspects of “http-server”:
- Static File Serving: “http-server” is specifically designed to serve static files, meaning files that do not change dynamically based on user input or server-side processing. This includes HTML files, CSS stylesheets, JavaScript files, images, videos, and other types of content.
- Command-Line Interface: Users interact with “http-server” through the command line, providing commands to start and stop the server. This makes it easy to use and accessible to users familiar with the command-line interface.
- Zero-Configuration Setup: “http-server” requires minimal configuration to get started. By default, it serves files from the current working directory on port 8080. This zero-configuration setup allows users to quickly launch a static file server without needing to specify additional settings.
- Customizable Options: While “http-server” offers a simple default configuration, users can customize various aspects of the server’s behavior. This includes specifying the port number to listen on, setting the root directory for serving files, enabling features such as directory listing, and configuring caching options.
- Cross-Platform Compatibility: “http-server” is compatible with various operating systems, including Linux, macOS, and Windows. This ensures that users can utilize the tool regardless of their preferred platform.
- HTTP/1.1 Support: “http-server” supports the HTTP/1.1 protocol, providing features such as persistent connections, range requests, and content negotiation. This ensures compatibility with modern web browsers and clients.
- Security Features: While “http-server” primarily serves static files, it includes basic security features such as restricting access to certain directories and preventing directory traversal attacks. Users can configure access control rules to restrict access to sensitive files or directories.
- Open Source: “http-server” is an open-source project hosted on GitHub, allowing users to view the source code, contribute improvements, report issues, and provide feedback. This open development model fosters community collaboration and ensures the ongoing improvement of the tool.
http-server Command Examples
1. Start an HTTP server listening on the default port to serve the current directory:
# http-server
2. Start an HTTP server on a specific port to serve a specific directory:
# http-server [path/to/directory] --port [port]
3. Start an HTTP server using basic authentication:
# http-server --username [username] --password [password]
4. Start an HTTP server with directory listings disabled:
# http-server -d [false]
5. Start an HTTPS server on the default port using the specified certificate:
# http-server --ssl --cert [path/to/cert.pem] --key [path/to/key.pem]
6. Start an HTTP server and include the client’s IP address in the output logging:
# http-server --log-ip
7. Start an HTTP server with CORS enabled by including the Access-Control-Allow-Origin: * header in all responses:
# http-server --cors
8. Start an HTTP server with logging disabled:
# http-server --silent
Summary
Overall, “http-server” is a convenient and reliable solution for serving static files over HTTP. Its simplicity, flexibility, and ease of use make it an ideal choice for developers, designers, and anyone needing to quickly share or showcase static web content.