Algernon

Algernon is a modern, lightweight web server written in pure Go that combines simplicity with powerful features. It offers built-in support for Lua scripting, Markdown rendering, and modern web protocols like HTTP/2 and QUIC, making it ideal for developers who need a self-contained solution for dynamic web applications.

Key Features

• Modern Protocol Support:

  • HTTP/1.1 and HTTP/2 support
  • QUIC protocol implementation
  • TLS/SSL encryption
  • WebSocket connections
  • Automatic protocol negotiation
  • Performance optimization

• Built-in Scripting:

  • Lua scripting engine integration
  • Server-side script execution
  • Dynamic content generation
  • Template processing
  • Custom function libraries
  • Real-time script compilation

• Content Processing:

  • Markdown to HTML rendering
  • Static file serving
  • Template engine support
  • Asset compilation
  • Content caching
  • MIME type detection

• Database Integration:

  • Redis database support
  • PostgreSQL connectivity
  • Built-in key-value store
  • Session management
  • Data persistence
  • Connection pooling

• Development Tools:

  • Live reload functionality
  • Auto-compilation of scripts
  • Development mode with debugging
  • Error reporting and logging
  • Hot reloading of content
  • Built-in profiling

• Performance & Efficiency:

  • Single binary deployment
  • Low memory footprint
  • Fast startup times
  • Concurrent request handling
  • Efficient resource usage
  • Minimal dependencies

• Security Features:

  • TLS/SSL certificate support
  • Secure HTTP headers
  • Access control mechanisms
  • Rate limiting capabilities
  • Input validation
  • CSRF protection

Technical Specifications

• Language: Go
• Scripting: Lua
• Protocols: HTTP/1.1, HTTP/2, QUIC
• Databases: Redis, PostgreSQL, Built-in
• License: BSD-3-Clause
• Platforms: Linux, macOS, Windows, Docker

Use Cases

• Personal Websites: Small personal sites with dynamic content
• Development Servers: Local development and testing environments
• Prototyping: Rapid prototyping of web applications
• Microservices: Lightweight service endpoints
• Documentation Sites: Markdown-based documentation hosting
• API Servers: Simple REST API development

Unique Advantages

• Self-Contained: Single binary with no external dependencies
• Modern Protocols: Built-in HTTP/2 and QUIC support
• Scripting Integration: Native Lua scripting for dynamic content
• Database Ready: Built-in support for popular databases
• Developer Friendly: Live reload and development features
• Lightweight: Minimal resource usage and fast performance

Based on the Algernon GitHub repository, this tool provides developers with a modern, efficient web server that combines the simplicity of static serving with the power of dynamic content generation, making it perfect for projects that need more than a basic web server but don't require the complexity of larger frameworks.