Common Gateway Interface

Meaning – In the context of computing, a common gateway interface is one that enables the web servers to to execute a particular process, or process user requests.

This common gateway interface also refers to a standard for the exchange of information between a Web server and computer programs that are external to it. The external programs can be written in any programming language that is supported by the operating system on which the Web server is running.

The cgi was developed in the 90s, and it was the key ingredient, that allowed web pages to be interactive. However, today, there are many alternatives to cgi, and they are all much better and more optimised.

Example of usage “The developer was an expert at CGI programming, but off latte, his clients have requested him use newer technologies, which he is required to learn.”