GeoWebCache is a Java-based HttpServlet that provides caching for WMS tiles. It allows tiles to be retrieved quickly, reducing server load and improving performance for users.
GeoWebCache is a highly efficient cache for WMS tiles that you can use with a range of different containers, including Jetty, Tomcat, and JBoss. Written in Java and built as an HttpServlet, GeoWebCache boasts impressive response times that typically measure in milliseconds.
To make configuration as straightforward as possible, GeoWebCache relies on a few different properties files. First, there's the GeoWebCache.properties file itself. Beyond that, you'll also need to use properties files for both commons-logging and cache configuration. Thankfully, the software comes with loads of sample files that include guidance for everything from setting up commons-logging with log4j to configuring the JCS cache.
To start running GeoWebCache, all you need to do is copy the war file into the webapps directory of your application server. After that, the software should be available and accessible at the right URL. If you're curious about how it all works, you can even try out the sample OpenLayers interface (though you'll need to have a Geoserver deployed alongside GeoWebCache and topp:states available).
Last but not least, it's worth mentioning the inclusion of src/docs/JCSAdmin.jsp. This helpful tool provides a basic cache viewer that you can use to gain insight into how everything is performing. However, beware that it exposes cache clearing without a password, so it should only be used for non-public-facing servers. Overall, if you're looking for a reliable and efficient cache for WMS tiles, GeoWebCache definitely ranks among the top contenders.
To make configuration as straightforward as possible, GeoWebCache relies on a few different properties files. First, there's the GeoWebCache.properties file itself. Beyond that, you'll also need to use properties files for both commons-logging and cache configuration. Thankfully, the software comes with loads of sample files that include guidance for everything from setting up commons-logging with log4j to configuring the JCS cache.
To start running GeoWebCache, all you need to do is copy the war file into the webapps directory of your application server. After that, the software should be available and accessible at the right URL. If you're curious about how it all works, you can even try out the sample OpenLayers interface (though you'll need to have a Geoserver deployed alongside GeoWebCache and topp:states available).
Last but not least, it's worth mentioning the inclusion of src/docs/JCSAdmin.jsp. This helpful tool provides a basic cache viewer that you can use to gain insight into how everything is performing. However, beware that it exposes cache clearing without a password, so it should only be used for non-public-facing servers. Overall, if you're looking for a reliable and efficient cache for WMS tiles, GeoWebCache definitely ranks among the top contenders.
What's New
Version 1.2.0: N/A