Whether you have heard of Web Distributed Authoring and Versioning (WebDAV) or not, it is everywhere you can think of. WebDAV is a collaborative editing tool used to edit the web remotely. Webservers that support this kind of collaboration will work as a fileserver. It is found in Apache HTTP server, Microsoft IIS, Box.com, WordPress, Drupal, MacOS Finder, Microsoft Office, Git, and many more.
What is WebDAV?
WebDAV, simply put, is an extension of HTTP. It allows web-browsers and webservers to communicate with each other and supports the collaborative authoring of web content. It extends the set of standard methods to provide the ability to create a file or folder, edit it in place, copy, move, and more. It typically uses port 80 for unencrypted access, and port 433 (HTTPS) for secure access.
Where Can I Find WebDAV?
As we mentioned, you can find WebDAV everywhere. Almost any website you view, You need to keep in mind, though, many websites have had WebDAV support for quite a while. Even though it may not be central to the particular package, the WebDAV features are not as well maintained as previously.
WebDAV Clients
WebDAV clients are standalone applications, extensions to file explorers, or modules. Those include products like Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, etc), Apple iWork (Pages, Numbers, Keynote), Adobe Photoshop and Dreamweaver, and others. Because they are stored in the cloud, resources can be shared behind the scenes to provide remote file modifications.
WebDAV Servers
WebDAV servers are always webservers, but they are often embedded in another system. The types of servers are:
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General purpose webservers – This is usually found in Apache HTTP servers. Many webservers that support WebDAV as an add-on module include Nginx, lighttpd, Microsoft IIS, and more.
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Version control systems – This style is usually available in some form of WebDAV, and includes Git, Subversion, PVCS, and others.
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Collaborative Platforms and Content Management Systems – This style includes Microsoft Sharepoint, Drupal, Joomia, WordPress and others. With those, they may be available through add-ons or built-in.
- NAS and cloud storage – Box.com will offer you access to your folders and files by using WebDAV.
Of course, there are other types of file altering systems, but because of the functionality, this one is still running strong. It is not hard to see the different features that make it a good choice. And there you have a brief explanation of webDAV. Please share it with your friends so they can learn about WebDAV as well. Follow us @VPNFan for the latest deals and guides.