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RRZ
Regional Computing
Center (RRZ)

Photo: UHH, RRZ/MCC

Web Applications

After websites, web applications are the most commonly used service for creating web pages. Web applications are mostly programs written in scripting languages to enable interaction between users and a web server for entering or changing data via a web browser using http(s). The data is usually stored in a relational database. Such applications are generally not available in the central WCMS Fiona.

The RRZ provides a platform for web applications based on open source products. It can be used upon request. The following technologies for implementing a web application can be used on the platform:

  • PHP
  • PERL
  • Python

The following are used as the basic infrastructure

  • Linux (Ubuntu)
  • MariaDb
  • PostgreSQL
  • Apache

We will be happy to provide you with the currently used versions of these components upon request.

The RRZ administers the infrastructure for web applications: server, operating system (Linux), basic software (Apache, PHP, etc.). Users install and administer their own application(s). They are therefore also responsible for the secure operation of their own application(s) and for compliance with legal and university requirements. This effort must be made on an ongoing basis, requires the necessary know-how, and should therefore not be underestimated. We therefore recommend that you seek advice from the RRZ in good time for such a project.

Please note that with the provision of the WCMS Fiona, it is no longer necessary to install content management systems such as Typo3, Drupal, or Wordpress for the creation and administration of websites. The WCMS Fiona is the tool of choice for operating a “normal” website. Exceptions are projects that are set up as collaborations with institutions outside the University of Hamburg and therefore should not or are not allowed to use the central, uniform University of Hamburg layout.

One more note: there are already numerous centrally available web applications (e.g., Limesurvey, Matomo, PhpMyAdmin), so it is best to consult with the RRZ before unnecessarily setting up your own web application.