mod_pubsub

publish and subscribe messaging for the web.

What is mod_pubsub?

mod_pubsub is a set of libraries, tools, and scripts that enable publish and subscribe messaging over HTTP. mod_pubsub extends Apache by running within its mod_perl Web Server module.

What's the benefit of developing with mod_pubsub?

Real-time data delivery to and from Web Browsers without refreshing; without installing client-side software; and without Applets, ActiveX, or Plug-ins. This is useful for live portals and dashboards, and Web Browser notifications.

How about other Web Servers, or if I have no Web Server?

mod_pubsub's scripts can be used with other Web Servers, as well. We also provide a separate, feature-compatible standalone PubSub Server written in Python that is run from the command-line.

Are there any other products like mod_pubsub?

Similar projects include Pushlets and OpenThought. Unlike mod_pubsub, Pushlets can only maintain a few simultaneous connections, and require Java programming. With mod_pubsub, if you know how to use HTTP, you can do PubSub.
Courtesy of KnowNow.

What languages does mod_pubsub support?

Besides a zero-install JavaScript library that runs within a Browser's Web page, we also offer embeddable libraries to connect applications written in C; Visual Basic, Visual C++, and C# using ActiveX, COM, .NET, or PocketPC; Python, Perl, PHP, and Ruby; and Java. These libraries allow asynchronous Web messaging -- PubSub over HTTP. Our goal is to connect as much as possible.

Cool, how can I try mod_pubsub?

Download the mod_pubsub tarball from our SourceForge project page. Also, join our mailing lists to keep up to date on the development of mod_pubsub. And, feel free to peruse some of our technical documents: Developer Guide, PubSub Protocol, and JavaScript Library Reference.