how do I make the dynamic URL (?) into a static solution revisted...

(no mod_rewrite available)

[bartek]

While some solutions have been posted, my host does not provide mod_rewrite due to "security concerns". Any ideas how to make this work (with a minimal performance overhead)?

[littleman]

bartek, you need a new host. There was an avoidable vulnerability that has been addressed since apache 1.3.14.

All the other solutions that I know about are much more work.

If you have lots if time and want safe and low overhead (server wise at least) you could save the dynamic pages and serve them up statically.

[bartek]

thanks, littleman... I was afraid you were gonna say that. The box this site is on is running 1.3.19, I don't know why they won't install it. I think I have some convincing to do.

[Brett_Tabke]

So you have htaccess available? That you can kick on ssi's on html docs?

AddType text/html .htm
AddHandler server-parsed .htm

Then use ssi from the html files to call your dynamic stuff:

<!--#include virtual="/cgi-bin/foo.cgi?bar=1&excell=go&etc=you+get+the+picture"-->

That won't get you user passed values, but it can give you some static options.

[ggrot]

An option you might consider is setting a directory ErrorHandler message in .htaccess. Make all file not found requests return some CGI of your choice instead. Then use the requested path to serve up specialized content. You will need to be sure to override the 404 header within your script though, otherwise it is unlikely that you will get spidered.

[bartek]

Thanks Brett and ggrot... The site is already served via SSI - one more call won't hurt, right?I'll definetely try this trick, looks pretty clean.

[ggrot]

If you decide to make a go with the 404 stuff and need some help coding the CGI, let me know...I've had to do similar stuff before and I still have code.

[bartek]

Now that's a very nice offer, thanks! I just fixed it (coffee, thank God for coffee) and it works wonders - I'll keep your email handy for the future :)

[littleman]

ggrot, have you been able to alter the header info without mod_rewrite? You could put your own header info with a 'nph', non-parsed header, but will that over ride the 404? I have never tried it. I know it is possible with a rewrite routine.

[littleman]

To quote Popeye, "Well BLOW ME DOWN !"
The 404/nph combination works. It is good to know it is an option.

[ezGuy]

Hi Guys,

I have just prototyped changing my dynamic pages into static using 404 error trapping.

B4 I put it on live, the BIG QUESTION:

-Would SEs (Google) detect 404, and abort crawling?

Thanks,

ezGuy

[akogo]

ggrot,

I wondered if you could post a sample of your .htaccess file? It sounds workable. I've tried Brett_Tabke method it is works!