Can\'t download PDFs via HTTP link

[da-bronx]

I'm running Mac OS X Server 10.4 (Build 8A428) from a desktop G4 with Web services enabled. I have not updated Apache from the version that came with this build.

I want to make PDF files stored on this system available to members of a listserv, via an HTTP link, to avoid sending the files as attachments. The HTTP links are included in posts to the listserv and the subscribed members then click on the link to download the file. Easy right?

A fairly large number of these subscribers, say 20-30% of 300 total, have been complaing that they cannot download these files. The error they receive from their browser is a generic "the server is unavailable" or "the server cannot be found." The problem occurs for both Mac and Windows users. There are no other connectivity issues with this server: it is always pingable, accessible via AFP and Apple Remote Desktop. And again, most users don't have a problem.

I realize that there are many variables that might cause such a problem, form user system configurations, to faulty hardware.

I have already relocated this server from a suspect switch but the problem continues. Any other suggestions?

-MIchael

[da-bronx]

While looking at an index page for the dir. within which these PDFs are located on the server, I noticed that the page was being served over Port 16080 as opposed to the standard Port 80. It occurred to me that some firewalls may not be configured to permit traffic through this port and that this could explain part of the problem.

A quick Google search revealed that this port change occurs when Performance Caching is enabled in Mac OS X Server's Web Services. This feature is enabled by default and is intended to improve the performance of static pages laden with images.

I've disabled this feature and I'm waiting to see if it has any impact.