Definition: embedded Web server

Web server software that is built into hardware. Almost all network devices have embedded Web servers (HTTP servers), which provide a control panel for configuring the device. The primary advantage is that hardware vendors only have to write one program based on Internet standards, and their control panel utility is accessible from any Web browser on any hardware platform.

An embedded Web server is like a mini website, except that it is not on the Web. However, some Web servers may be accessed remotely via the Internet. See ETI and Web server.

A Mini Website in the Printer

This home page came from the HTTP server built into the laser printer, not from the Web. The 192.168.1.250 is the IP address of the printer on the local network. See IP address.

In an External Print Server

HTTP server software is built into this external network print server, which plugs into the printer's parallel port.

A Website in Your Washing Machine

This washing machine has a Wi-Fi connection for reporting problems to the vendor, and settings are configured and displayed via a Web browser.