What is CGI?

CGI is likely the most important concept in the developmet of the web. CGI or "The Common Gateway Interface" allows anyone to access programs on a web server.

That takes static HTML text based pages and opens the entire capability of computer based programs to the world wide web.

When the net began, there was an abundance of pages. More information than anyone needed. But that was all.

CGI opened the door for interactive pages. Allowing for chatrooms, forums and other novelties.

But more importantly it opened the door for collecting money and selling products. CGI and the ability for a web user to access programs rather than just pages made the web a booming e-commerce industry rather than just a bunch of advertisments.

CGI now more commonly updated to "Web 2.0" is not a new concept. If web pages had remained static in nature the webwould not be as popular as it is,

But now with the ability to upload your own pics and content, access streaming video clips at UTUBE and build homepages at MYSPACE the web has become more interesting.

The web is not just a buch of business ads, the web is full of bloggers, social networks, businesses and retailers, adult entertainment, religious resources, political information and opinions and much more.

You can meet people online and have discussions in real time. You can buy a new car, you can sell your car on ebay.

All of this is made possible with CGI.