Understanding input and variables

Every X Engine receives data in the form of variables. These variables are initially supplied by an input adaptor. The most commonly used input adaptor receives web application input, but other adaptors receive XML data, CSV data or other more complex input.

For the purpose of understanding the above rule set, the web application input adaptor supplies the variables REQUEST_URL, URI and REQUEST_TIMESTAMP. It also supplies as variables any parameters provided by GET or POST requests. To obtain more detailed information about the HTTP request, the HTTP Request Tracker rule is used

The reason for this separation is that you may not need all of the detailed information for most requests (such as images). This example provides a quick window into the world of Composable Architecture Platform. The next step is to create a configuration that will have a more interactive result.