Build a strong foundation in configuring, managing and securing web environments with this Apache Web Server course. You’ll cover key topics from virtual hosting to load balancing and SSL, developing your ability to support and maintain Apache-based infrastructure.
Apache Web Server
Strengthen your skills in Apache web administration
This three-day Apache Web Server course develops your ability to configure, secure and manage Apache-based environments. Ideal for IT professionals supporting Linux or cross-platform infrastructures, you’ll gain structured experience through live labs, building practical skills to handle complex hosting setups with confidence.
Learning objectives
- Configure Apache server directives
- Manage httpd.conf and related configuration files
- Set up secure access and authentication
- Implement and manage virtual hosts
- Create and configure a proxy server
- Apply load balancing techniques
- Enable and configure Apache SSL
- Integrate Apache with PHP and Tomcat
- Optimise performance and logging
- Use indexing and URL rewriting techniques
What you’ll learn
Learn to manage and optimise web hosting environments using Apache. From server configuration and secure access to performance tuning and proxy services, you’ll gain the technical knowledge and live virtual classroom experience to support Apache installations confidently across Linux and multi-platform systems.
Server configuration fundamentals
Learn how to structure and modify Apache’s core configuration using the httpd.conf file. This module introduces the principles behind directive settings and demonstrates how to customise Apache’s behaviour across different server environments. You’ll explore key settings including Listen, Modules, and MIME handling, and understand how to adapt the server to meet specific performance and security goals. Through hands-on work in live labs, you’ll build confidence in managing Apache’s operational core - laying a strong foundation for advanced web server management tasks.
Access, authentication and logging
Discover how to control access to web content and secure your Apache server using a range of authentication techniques, including LDAP integration. You’ll configure user permissions with directory blocks, access directives and behavioural settings. This module also covers custom logging - setting up LogFormat and CustomLog directives to monitor traffic and identify issues. Error log management and diagnostic techniques are also covered, giving you the tools to effectively audit and troubleshoot server-side issues in real time.
Virtual hosting, proxies and load balancing
Learn how to support multiple websites on a single Apache instance using name-based, IP-based and port-based virtual hosting. You’ll configure reverse proxy behaviour using ProxyPass and ProxyPassReverse, and explore Apache’s built-in tools for managing load distribution with mod_proxy_balancer. Practical exercises guide you through different balancing algorithms and sticky session configurations to ensure smooth traffic flow. This module helps you design scalable, high-availability setups that are crucial for modern, multi-service web infrastructures.
Integrations and security
Understand how to secure your Apache server using SSL certificates and protocols – protecting your sites and services with encrypted connections. You’ll also configure Apache to run PHP scripts and connect with Tomcat to deliver dynamic content. Further topics include directory indexing options and URL rewriting, giving you fine-grained control over how content is served and presented. By the end of this module, you’ll be able to integrate Apache confidently into more complex web environments and maintain secure, well-structured configurations.
What’s included
- Three days of expert-led, live virtual training
- Interactive learning in live lab environments
- Real-world configuration and security scenarios
- A certificate of attendance to confirm completion
- Follow-up support options
Key facts
Ideal for
System administrators, developers and support professionals responsible for configuring or managing Apache Web Servers in Linux or mixed-OS environments.
Prerequisites
You should have a good working knowledge of operating systems, similar to what’s covered in our Linux Introduction or equivalent Windows courses. Some programming experience – such as PHP or Ruby – along with an understanding of general web concepts is useful. While not essential, prior experience with Linux System Administration (LPI) or equivalent training is also beneficial.
Learning experience
Our experienced trainers and interactive labs create a focused, practical environment – so you can put theory into practice from day one.
FAQs
This immersive course provides a structured introduction to the Apache Web Server, covering configuration, access control, virtual hosting, logging, proxy services, load balancing, SSL, and integration with PHP and Tomcat. Ideal for IT professionals looking to build server-side capability and explore more advanced topics.
What is the Apache Web Server used for?
Apache is a widely used open-source web server that powers websites and web applications. It handles HTTP requests, serves content to users, and supports modules for enhanced functionality like SSL, PHP integration, and proxying. It remains one of the most widely used web servers globally – making it a core skill for IT professionals.
Is this Apache course suitable for beginners?
This course is best suited to IT professionals who have some experience working with operating systems, command-line interfaces, or server administration. You should be comfortable navigating file systems and editing configuration files. Prior knowledge at the level of our Linux Introduction or Windows Introduction course is strongly recommended. Experience with web technologies such as PHP or Ruby will also be beneficial. If you're new to managing servers, our Linux System Administration (LPI) course offers a solid foundation before progressing to this Apache Web Server Course.
What’s the difference between Apache and Tomcat?
Apache HTTP Server is primarily used to serve static content such as HTML, images, and stylesheets, while Tomcat is a servlet container designed to run Java-based web applications. In this course, you’ll learn how Apache can act as a front-end server, efficiently handling static content and routing dynamic requests to Tomcat using proxy connectors. This allows for improved performance, scalability and a clearer separation of concerns within a web architecture.
What’s the next step after this Apache course?
Follow-on courses include Linux System Administration (LPI), PHP Developer, and Introduction to MySQL - ideal for deepening your infrastructure and back-end development capabilities. The skills gained from these courses can support progression into roles such as web server administrator, DevOps engineer, infrastructure specialist or systems consultant.
What our customers say
“John was a great, kind instructor and thoroughly explained the concepts alongside the use of multiple examples to demonstrate. He was very helpful in answering any questions that arose with detailed explanations and/or examples when relevant.”
Jessica, StayAhead Learner
“Tarn is an excellent instructor. Everything was clearly communicated. One of the best courses I have attended in recent years.”
Simon, StayAhead Learner
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