Definition of CGI

CGI stands for Common Gateway Interface. It is one of the methods used for creating dynamic webpages. More specifically, it is the method by which external application software is interfaced with an information server. The information server is commonly an HTTP or web server. The information that is presented is typically an HTML document that remains static or constant. The CGI program actively transmits data or information in order to present or display the information to a client or web browser. CGI programs are executed in real time.

CGI provides a way for a request to the information server to be identified and executed. It enables the command to be run and output to be returned. The implementation of a CGI involves the creation of directories, changing or modifying existing directories, as well as connecting to the information server. CGI scripts are typically written in any one of the following programming languages: Java, Perl, C, or Virtual Basic.

External links:

• A Wikipedia explanation of CGI
• W3 documentation on CGI
• A handful of basic CGI tutorials
• Detailed CGI programming tutorials
• CGI resource sites