civetweb/civetweb
FreeEmbedded C/C++ web server
FreeFree tier
About civetweb/civetweb
CivetWeb is an easy-to-use, powerful embedded C/C++ web server with optional CGI, SSL (TLS) and Lua support. Forked from Mongoose in 2013 before its license change, CivetWeb maintains a liberal MIT license, allowing unrestricted innovation. It can be used as a library to add web server functionality to existing applications or as a stand-alone web server running on Windows or Linux. No installation is required; it runs as a single executable. The project is actively maintained on GitHub with comprehensive documentation and support for Docker, OpenSSL, and more.
Key Features
Embeddable C/C++ web server library
Optional CGI support
Optional SSL/TLS support via OpenSSL
Optional Lua scripting support
Stand-alone executable with no installation required
Cross-platform (Windows, Linux, macOS)
MIT license (commercial-friendly)
Docker container support
Extensive documentation and API reference
Active development with CI, static analysis, and CodeQL
Pros & Cons
Pros
- MIT license allows commercial use without restrictions
- Lightweight and minimal footprint
- Single executable with no dependencies or installation required
- Cross-platform support (Windows, Linux, macOS)
- Active open-source development with thorough testing and CI/CD
- Comprehensive documentation and embedding guide
Cons
- May lack some advanced features of full-featured web servers (e.g., advanced caching, proxy)
- CGI and Lua support require additional configuration and may have security considerations
Best For
Adding HTTP/HTTPS web server functionality to existing C/C++ applicationsServing static and dynamic web content as a lightweight standalone web serverEmbedding a web interface in embedded systems (e.g., Zephyr, buildroot)Providing a REST API or web-based configuration for software projectsEducational purposes to learn web server internals