c-web-modules offers a streamlined and modular framework for web development in C. By leveraging the efficiency of C, this project enables developers to create scalable web applications with ease, focusing on performance and modularity in their approach.
Welcome to c-web-modules, the innovative framework offering a modular and efficient approach to web development using the C programming language. This project is inspired by the concept of kernel modules and AWS Lambda, empowering developers to effortlessly upload and run C code directly on the server without the need for precompilation. While currently a proof of concept and intended as a minimum viable product (MVP), c-web-modules presents an exciting opportunity for rapid experimentation in web applications.
Why Choose c-web-modules?
c-web-modules addresses several common pitfalls associated with using C for web development:
-
Accelerated Development Cycles: By allowing the direct upload of raw C code that the server compiles in real-time, developers can enjoy a seamless workflow akin to "hot reloading"—all without the hassle of restarting server processes.
-
Performance on Demand: Although raw computational speed is not always paramount for web applications, this modular approach is ideal for performance-critical tasks, enabling you to strategically integrate optimized code when necessary.
-
Boosted Time-to-Market: Say goodbye to excessive boilerplate code! c-web-modules automates repetitive server tasks such as routing and module integration, allowing developers to focus on building unique application features rather than wrestling with tedious setup processes.
-
Enhanced Stability: Each module operates within its own isolated environment, significantly reducing risks associated with crashes. This modularity enables developers to concentrate on smaller, manageable pieces of code, simplifying memory management and error handling.
-
Leveraging Established Libraries: Support for well-known external libraries such as SQLite3, OpenSSL, and Jansson is built-in. This integration allows you to utilize existing solutions, streamlining the development process and minimizing redundancy.
Example Module: The Counter
For a practical demonstration, check out the simplified counter module example below, which tracks a counter value accessible at the /counter route.
#include <stdio.h>
#include <cweb.h>
static int counter = 0;
static const char* template =
"<html>\n"
" <body>\n"
" <h1>Counter: %d</h1>\n"
" </body>\n"
"</html>\n";
/* Route: /counter - Method GET */
static int index_route(struct http_request *req, struct http_response *res) {
snprintf(res->body, HTTP_RESPONSE_SIZE, template, counter++);
res->status = HTTP_200_OK;
return 0;
}
/* Define the routes for the module */
export module_t config = {
.name = "counter",
.author = "cweb",
.routes = {
{"/counter", "GET", index_route, NONE},
},
.size = 1,
};
Key Features of c-web-modules
- On-the-Fly Code Deployment: Effortlessly upload C code for immediate server-side compilation.
- No Precompilation Necessity: Focus more on writing effective code and leave the compilation process to the server.
- Dynamic Functionalities: Make real-time updates to your modules without affecting overall server uptime.
- Exceptional Performance: Written in C, ensuring high-speed execution for demanding applications.
- Robust WebSocket Support: Maintain existing WebSocket connections while updating modules dynamically.
- Inherent Cross-Module Features: Utilize shared resources for improved task management.
Supported External Libraries
- OpenSSL: Currently provides hashing capabilities, with future support for secure communication.
- SQLite3: Access a lightweight database solution across all modules.
- Jansson: Facilitates smooth JSON parsing and manipulation.
How c-web-modules Stands Out
Unlike traditional server modules such as Apache Modules and ISAPI Extensions that require significant configuration changes and server restarts, c-web-modules allows for:
- Dynamic Deployment Without Restarts: Quickly integrate updated C code into your application, maintaining service consistency.
- Independent Module Management: Enhances server reliability by isolating individual processes.
- Continuous WebSocket Connection: Updates can occur while retaining active WebSocket connections, a rarity in many server environments.
As a proof of concept, c-web-modules stands ready to transform how developers leverage the power of C in web applications. Embrace the future of web development with speed and modularity!