22. GeoServer¶
22.1 What is GeoServer?¶
GeoServer is a Java-based server that enables users to view, edit, and share geospatial data. Built on open standards defined by the Open Geospatial Consortium (OGC), it offers powerful flexibility for map creation and data interoperability.
22.2 Open and Share Your Spatial Data¶
GeoServer allows you to share your spatial data with the world by implementing the Web Map Service (WMS) standard. It can generate maps in various output formats, and integrates with OpenLayers, a free mapping library, making map creation fast and straightforward. GeoServer itself is built on GeoTools, an open-source Java GIS toolkit.
GeoServer also supports the Web Feature Service (WFS) and Web Coverage Service (WCS) standards, enabling data sharing and editing. Additionally, it uses the Web Map Tile Service (WMTS) standard to serve map tiles optimized for web and mobile apps.
The platform is modular, with extra capabilities available through extensions. For example, the Web Processing Service (WPS) extension unlocks powerful geospatial processing features—and you can even create your own custom extensions!
By using GeoServer, you empower others to embed your data in their websites and applications, promoting open access and greater transparency.
22.3 Use Free and Open Source Software¶
GeoServer is free software, which significantly reduces the financial barrier to entry compared to proprietary GIS solutions. Being open-source, GeoServer allows the community to transparently and efficiently contribute bug fixes and feature enhancements. This openness helps prevent vendor lock-in, ultimately saving costs on long-term support and licensing contracts.
22.4 Integrate With Mapping APIs¶
We recommend both OpenLayers and Leaflet as excellent open-source web mapping libraries. When combined with GeoServer, they provide a powerful, fully open-source solution for web mapping.
GeoServer can also serve spatial data to popular mapping platforms, including:
Additionally, GeoServer integrates smoothly with traditional GIS architectures such as ESRI ArcGIS.
22.5 Join the Community¶
GeoServer benefits from a large and active global community of users and developers, providing support through multiple channels such as email lists. It maintains a regular release cycle and a public issue tracker, ensuring transparency and consistent updates. Additionally, commercial support is available from various providers, so with GeoServer, you are always backed by a strong and supportive community.