GeoServer

GeoServer

GeoServer is an open source software server written in Java that allows users to share, process and edit geospatial data. It is designed to be interoperable with major spatial data sources and standards.
GeoServer image
gis maps geospatial-data open-source

GeoServer: Open Source Geospatial Data Server

A Java-based server for sharing, processing, and editing geospatial data, interoperable with major spatial data sources and standards.

What is GeoServer?

GeoServer is an open source server for sharing geospatial data. It is the reference implementation of the Open Geospatial Consortium (OGC) Web Feature Service (WFS) and Web Coverage Service (WCS) standards, as well as a high performance certified compliant Web Map Service (WMS). GeoServer forms a core component of the Geospatial Web.

Key features of GeoServer include:

  • Publishes data from any major spatial data source using open standards
  • Provides a web administration interface to manage users, data, and more
  • High performance and output quality
  • Exposes data through open web service interfaces
  • Community supported through active mailing lists and developer involvement

GeoServer is built on Geotools, an open source Java GIS toolkit. It runs in a Java servlet container like Apache Tomcat or Jetty. It supports layered mapping and incorporates preprocessing and advanced cartography.

Overall, GeoServer is a complete, standards compliant, fully featured open source server for sharing geospatial data on the web.

GeoServer Features

Features

  1. Publish data from any major spatial data source using open standards
  2. Fine grained access control
  3. INSPIRE compliant WMS, WFS and WCS services
  4. High performance and clustered deployments
  5. Extendable with plugins
  6. REST API for configuration and automation

Pricing

  • Open Source

Pros

Open source and free

Wide range of supported data formats and standards

High performance and scalability

Security features like access control

Extendable architecture

Cons

Steep learning curve

Complex configuration

Requires Java and Tomcat environment

Limited user interface for administration

Not as user friendly as proprietary alternatives


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