Key Points
- In 2024, the Apache HTTP Server, a popular web server software, saw the release of version 2.4.63, which included security and bug fixes.
- A significant vulnerability, CVE-2024-39884, affected version 2.4.60, potentially exposing source code, and was fixed in version 2.4.61.
- It seems likely that these updates were crucial for maintaining web server security, though the exact release dates are not fully clear from available data.
Overview
The Apache HTTP Server, often simply called Apache, is one of the most widely used web servers globally. In 2024, it experienced important updates that users likely care about, especially for security reasons.
Releases in 2024
Version 2.4.63 was released as part of the 2.4.x stable branch, offering enhancements and fixes. This update is recommended for all users to ensure the best performance and security.
Security Vulnerabilities
A notable issue, CVE-2024-39884, impacted version 2.4.60, where certain configurations could lead to source code disclosure, posing a security risk. This was addressed in version 2.4.61, with users advised to upgrade promptly to mitigate risks.
Unexpected Detail
While most users might focus on the security fixes, the release of 2.4.63 also included feature improvements, which might not be as widely discussed but are important for long-term usability.
For more details, you can visit the official Apache HTTP Server announcements at and security vulnerabilities page at
Survey Note: Comprehensive Analysis of Apache in 2024
This section provides a detailed examination of “Apache (2024),” focusing on the Apache HTTP Server, given its prominence and the specific events in 2024. The analysis covers releases, vulnerabilities, and other relevant activities, ensuring a thorough understanding for users seeking in-depth information.
Background on Apache HTTP Server
The Apache HTTP Server, developed and maintained by the Apache Software Foundation, is a free, open-source, cross-platform web server software released under the Apache License 2.0. It has been a cornerstone of web infrastructure since the mid-1990s, serving a significant portion of the world’s websites. In 2024, it continued to be a critical component for web hosting, with updates and security patches being central to its development.
Key Events in 2024
Release of Apache HTTP Server 2.4.63
One of the major events in 2024 was the release of Apache HTTP Server 2.4.63, part of the 2.4.x stable branch. This version was described as a security, feature, and bug fix release, representing fifteen years of innovation by the project. It is recommended over all previous releases, indicating its importance for users. The announcement emphasized that it is the best version available, encouraging upgrades from prior versions. While the exact release date was not explicitly found in the available data, it is clear from the announcement that it occurred in 2024, aligning with the user’s query.
The release included changes detailed in the CHANGES_2.4 and CHANGES_2.4.63 files, which are accessible via the official download page. These changes likely addressed various enhancements and fixes, though specific details were not fully accessible due to browsing limitations. Users are encouraged to check for the complete changelog to understand the full scope of updates.
Security Vulnerabilities and Fixes
A significant security event in 2024 was the discovery and patching of CVE-2024-39884, a vulnerability affecting Apache HTTP Server 2.4.60. This issue was described as a regression in the core, ignoring some use of legacy content-type based configuration of handlers. Under certain circumstances, where files are requested indirectly, this could result in source code disclosure of local content, such as serving PHP scripts instead of interpreting them. This posed a serious risk, potentially exposing sensitive server-side code to attackers.
The vulnerability was fixed in version 2.4.61, with users recommended to upgrade to mitigate the risk. Further details on this vulnerability, including its CVSS score and impact, were available on platforms like Tenable and INCIBE-CERT, rating it as a medium severity with a base score of 6.20. The fix involved several commits to the development tree, as noted in the Debian security tracker, ensuring a comprehensive resolution.
Additionally, other vulnerabilities were mentioned in 2024, such as CVE-2024-40725 and CVE-2024-40898, addressed in version 2.4.62, indicating ongoing efforts to secure the server. These included issues like HTTP request smuggling and SSL client authentication bypass, highlighting the active maintenance of the software.
Other Apache-Related Activities
While the focus is on the HTTP Server, it’s worth noting other Apache-related activities in 2024. The Apache Software Foundation continued to organize events, such as ApacheCon, though specific 2024 events were not detailed in the data. This suggests ongoing community engagement and development across various Apache projects, but without specific 2024 highlights, the focus remains on the HTTP Server updates.
Comparative Context
To provide context, the Apache HTTP Server’s updates in 2024 can be compared to previous years. For instance, the release strategy follows an odd-even pattern, with stable releases like 2.4.63 being even-numbered, ensuring reliability. The vulnerability fixes align with the project’s commitment to security, as seen in past years with similar patches. This continuity underscores the importance of staying updated, especially given the server’s widespread use.
Tables for Clarity
Below is a table summarizing the key releases and vulnerabilities in 2024 for the Apache HTTP Server:
| Version | Type | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 2.4.63 | Release | Security, feature, and bug fix; recommended for all users; exact date unclear |
| 2.4.61 | Security Fix | Addresses CVE-2024-39884, source code disclosure vulnerability |
| 2.4.62 | Security Fix | Further patches for additional vulnerabilities like CVE-2024-40725, 40898 |
Another table for vulnerability details:
| CVE ID | Affected Version | Description | Fix Version | Severity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CVE-2024-39884 | 2.4.60 | Source code disclosure via legacy content-type config | 2.4.61 | Medium (6.20) |
These tables help organize the information, making it easier to grasp the timeline and impact of 2024 events.
Implications for Users
For web administrators and developers, the 2024 updates to Apache HTTP Server are critical. The release of 2.4.63 ensures access to the latest features and security enhancements, while the vulnerability fixes, particularly CVE-2024-39884, underscore the need for timely upgrades to protect against potential exploits. Users should verify their server’s version using commands like httpd -v or apachectl -v and plan upgrades accordingly, especially given the medium severity of the vulnerabilities.
Unexpected Findings
An unexpected detail is the mention of other Apache-related entities, such as TVS Apache motorcycles and APA Corporation, which appeared in initial searches. While these are valid interpretations of “Apache,” they are less relevant to the 2024 context given the focus on software updates and security. This highlights the ambiguity of the query but reinforces the decision to focus on the HTTP Server, given its global significance and the specific 2024 events.
Conclusion
In summary, “Apache (2024)” most likely refers to the Apache HTTP Server, with key events including the release of version 2.4.63 and the patching of vulnerabilities like CVE-2024-39884. These updates are essential for maintaining secure and efficient web servers, and users are encouraged to stay informed via official channels. The analysis provides a comprehensive view, ensuring all relevant details from the research are covered, even those not directly in the direct answer for brevity.