Web Server Basics
A practical introduction to domains, Nginx, HTTPS and reverse proxy infrastructure.
The basic architecture
A modern website usually combines several simple components.
Domain
A domain name provides a human-readable address for the service.
Web Server
Nginx can serve static files and handle incoming HTTP requests.
HTTPS
TLS encryption protects traffic between the browser and the web service.
Nginx fundamentals
The main building blocks of a simple Nginx configuration.
Server Block
A server block defines how Nginx handles requests for a particular domain.
Document Root
The root directory contains the files that Nginx serves to visitors.
Reverse Proxy
Nginx can forward requests to an application or service running behind it.
HTTPS and security
HTTPS should be the normal way visitors access a modern website.
TLS Certificate
A valid certificate allows browsers to establish an encrypted connection.
HTTP Redirect
HTTP traffic can be redirected to the secure HTTPS version of the site.
Firewall
Only the network ports required by the service should normally be exposed.