Guidance to allow a web site to be cut to CD


a) all URLs are relative to base.  use ../ to move up as needed.

b) use a postfix/file type on every file to improve cross platform
compatibility.  Use recognised MIME types wherever possible.

c) Keep filename lengths reasonable to improve compatibility across
Operatring Systems and when using some simpler compression programs
(say 32 characters maximum). Don't use characters in file names that
are unlikely to work well in some operating systems.  Avoid putting
spaces in filenames, for example, to improve usability in Unix.

d) for any reference to a directory that contains an index.htm(l) file
give the whole URL as web servers add the extra, but direct browsing
does not.

e) check every URL as out by one character errors are hidden and
can be resolved automatically by an HTTP server such as Apache.

f) remove all symbolic links and shortcuts.  Replace items pointed to
by copies of the files or folder, or alter the structure.

g) remove all password protected areas and special use areas.

h) consider carefully how server side features can be replaced (CGI,
ASP, etc.).  All these will not work from a CD or local file copy).

i) test by copying to local file store on a machine disconnected form
the network and check every expected link works, and all external
links are correct - but they will fail.

j) cut a copy to CD and test again, this time connected to network so
you check every external link.