How to Check the Apache Version

Apache HTTP Server, commonly referred to simply as Apache, is one of the most widely used web server software applications. Knowing the version of Apache installed on your server is essential for maintaining security, compatibility, and performance. In this article, we will explore various methods to check the Apache version installed on your system.

Why Check Apache Version?

1. Security: Different versions of Apache may have vulnerabilities that are patched in later releases. Knowing your version helps ensure you’re running a secure version.
2. Compatibility: Certain modules and applications may require specific versions of Apache. Checking the version helps you verify compatibility.
3. Performance Improvements: Newer versions often come with performance enhancements. Keeping track of your version can help you assess if an upgrade is necessary.

Method 1: Using the Command Line

The simplest and most direct way to check the Apache version is via the command line.

For Linux:

1. Open Terminal: Access your server using SSH or directly open the terminal on your Linux machine.
2. Run the Following Command:
   apache2 -v


   or for some distributions, you may need to use:

   httpd -v


   This command will return output similar to the following:

   Server version: Apache/2.4.41 (Ubuntu)
Server built: 2021-03-11T18:58:20


   The version number (in this case, 2.4.41) is what you are looking for.

For Windows:

1. Open Command Prompt: Press Win + R, type cmd, and hit Enter.
2. Navigate to Apache Directory: Change to the directory where Apache is installed, for example:
   cd C:\Program Files\Apache Group\Apache2\bin

3. Run the Version Command:
   httpd -v


   This will display the Apache version similar to the output shown above.

Method 2: Using the Apache Web Interface

If you have a web interface for your Apache server (like cPanel or Plesk), you can often find the Apache version listed in the dashboard or system information section. Here’s how to check it:

1. Log in to Your Control Panel: Access your hosting control panel.
2. Find Server Information: Look for a section like “Server Information,” “Server Status,” or “System Information.”
3. Check Apache Version: The Apache version should be displayed along with other server details.

Method 3: Checking the Apache Configuration Files

Another method to determine the version of Apache is by checking the configuration files, although this method is less direct.

1. Open the Apache Configuration File: The main configuration file is usually located at /etc/httpd/conf/httpd.conf for Red Hat-based systems or /etc/apache2/apache2.conf for Debian-based systems.
2. Look for Version Information:
   • You may not directly see the version, but the configuration file often includes comments with version information if it was edited.
   • You can also find related modules that indicate compatibility with specific versions.

Method 4: Accessing the Apache Server Status Page

If you have the Apache server status module enabled, you can access a web-based interface that displays server information, including the Apache version.

1. Enable mod_status: If not already enabled, you need to enable the mod_status module in your Apache configuration. You can do this by adding the following lines to your Apache configuration file:
   <Location "/server-status">
SetHandler server-status
Require host your-ip-address
</Location>

2. Restart Apache:
   sudo systemctl restart apache2

3. Access the Server Status Page: Visit http://your-server-ip/server-status in your web browser. You will find various details about your Apache server, including the version.

Conclusion

Checking the version of your Apache HTTP Server is a straightforward process and can be done using various methods, including the command line, web interfaces, and configuration files. Keeping track of your Apache version is crucial for maintaining the security and performance of your web server. Regularly updating Apache to the latest stable version will help protect your server from vulnerabilities and ensure compatibility with modern web technologies.