Extension

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  1. Extension (MediaWiki)

An extension in the context of MediaWiki is a piece of software that adds functionality to a standard MediaWiki installation. Think of MediaWiki as a base operating system, and extensions as applications you install *on* that operating system. They allow administrators to customize and expand the capabilities of a wiki beyond its core features, tailoring it to specific needs and audiences. From simple things like adding a table of contents enhancer to complex systems like semantic wikis and advanced user management, extensions are the cornerstone of a powerful and flexible wiki experience. This article will provide a comprehensive overview of MediaWiki extensions, covering their purpose, types, installation, management, and security considerations.

What do Extensions Do?

MediaWiki, in its default state, provides a robust platform for collaborative content creation. However, many users will quickly find that they need *more* than the core functionality offers. Here's a breakdown of what extensions commonly achieve:

  • Enhance Editing Experience: Extensions like VisualEditor dramatically improve the editing experience, offering a WYSIWYG (What You See Is What You Get) interface. Others, like CharInsert, provide easy access to special characters and symbols.
  • Add New Features: Extensions can introduce entirely new features, such as forums (using extensions like SemanticDiscussions), image galleries, or even e-commerce functionality.
  • Integrate with External Services: Many extensions facilitate integration with external services like Google Analytics, social media platforms, or specialized databases. This allows wikis to pull in data or share content seamlessly.
  • Modify Existing Behavior: Extensions can modify the behavior of existing MediaWiki features. For example, an extension might change how categories are displayed or how search results are ranked.
  • Improve Administration: Extensions can streamline administrative tasks, such as user management, spam prevention, and database maintenance.
  • Advanced Content Organization: Extensions like Semantic MediaWiki allow for structured data storage within wiki pages, enabling powerful querying and data visualization.

Essentially, extensions allow you to adapt MediaWiki to your precise requirements. Without extensions, wikis would be far less versatile and capable.

Types of Extensions

Extensions come in a wide variety of forms, targeting different needs. Here's a categorization:

  • Core Enhancements: These extensions build upon existing MediaWiki features, improving usability or adding minor enhancements. Examples include extensions for improving the table of contents, adding footnotes, or customizing the appearance of the wiki.
  • Feature-Rich Additions: These extensions introduce substantial new functionality. Semantic MediaWiki falls into this category, as does extensions for forums, blogs, or calendars.
  • Integration Extensions: These extensions connect the wiki to external services. They often require API keys and configuration to work correctly.
  • Maintenance & Administration Extensions: These extensions assist in managing the wiki, performing tasks like database optimization, user management, and spam filtering.
  • Gadgets: While technically a separate concept, gadgets are often considered a lightweight form of extension. They are client-side scripts (JavaScript and CSS) that modify the wiki's appearance or behavior for individual users. They don't require server-side installation. See Gadget.

Finding Extensions

The primary source for MediaWiki extensions is the MediaWiki Extension Directory. This directory hosts a vast collection of extensions, categorized by functionality. When browsing the directory, pay attention to the following:

  • Version Compatibility: Ensure the extension is compatible with your version of MediaWiki (currently 1.40). Older extensions may not work correctly, and newer extensions may require a MediaWiki upgrade.
  • Dependencies: Some extensions require other extensions to be installed first. The extension page will list any dependencies.
  • Documentation: Good documentation is crucial. The documentation should explain how to install, configure, and use the extension.
  • Last Updated: A recently updated extension is more likely to be well-maintained and secure.
  • Ratings & Reviews: Check the ratings and reviews to see what other users think of the extension.

Other resources for finding extensions include:

  • MediaWiki Forums: The MediaWiki forums are a good place to ask for recommendations or find out about less well-known extensions.
  • GitHub: Many extension developers host their code on GitHub, allowing you to contribute to the project or report bugs.
  • Extension Repositories: Some specialized communities maintain their own extension repositories.

Installing Extensions

Installing an extension typically involves these steps:

1. Download the Extension: Download the extension from the MediaWiki Extension Directory or the developer's website. The extension will usually be packaged as a ZIP or TAR archive. 2. Upload the Extension: Upload the archive to your wiki's `extensions/` directory. This directory is located in your MediaWiki installation folder. You can use FTP, SSH, or your web hosting control panel to upload the files. 3. Configure the Extension: Edit your `LocalSettings.php` file (located in your MediaWiki installation folder) and add the following line: 

   ```php
   require_once("$IP/extensions/ExtensionName/ExtensionName.php");
   ```

   Replace `ExtensionName` with the actual name of the extension's directory.  Some extensions require additional configuration settings in `LocalSettings.php`. The extension's documentation will provide details.

4. Enable the Extension: Some extensions may require you to explicitly enable them in `LocalSettings.php`. This is usually done by adding a line like: 

   ```php
   wfLoadExtension( 'ExtensionName' );
   ```

5. Update Cache: After installing and configuring the extension, you need to update the MediaWiki cache. You can do this by visiting `https://yourwiki.com/w/index.php?title=Special:PurgeCache` (replace `yourwiki.com` with your wiki's domain name). Alternatively, you can delete the cache directory manually (usually `cache/`). 6. Test the Extension: Verify that the extension is working as expected. Follow the instructions in the extension's documentation to test its functionality.

    • Important Security Note:** Always download extensions from trusted sources, like the MediaWiki Extension Directory. Avoid downloading extensions from unknown websites, as they may contain malicious code.

Managing Extensions

Once installed, extensions need to be managed. This includes:

  • Updating Extensions: Keep your extensions up to date to benefit from bug fixes, security improvements, and new features. The MediaWiki Extension Directory will usually provide updated versions of extensions. Updating is similar to installation – download the new version, replace the old files, and update the cache.
  • Configuring Extensions: Many extensions have configuration options that allow you to customize their behavior. These options are usually set in `LocalSettings.php` or through a special administrative interface provided by the extension.
  • Troubleshooting Extensions: If an extension is not working correctly, check the following:
   *   Error Logs:  Check your MediaWiki error logs for any error messages related to the extension.
   *   Extension Documentation:  Refer to the extension's documentation for troubleshooting tips.
   *   MediaWiki Forums:  Ask for help on the MediaWiki forums.
   *   Extension Developer:  Contact the extension developer if you cannot resolve the issue yourself.
  • Disabling Extensions: To temporarily or permanently disable an extension, comment out the `require_once` or `wfLoadExtension` line in your `LocalSettings.php` file. Remember to update the cache after disabling the extension.

Security Considerations

Extensions can introduce security vulnerabilities to your wiki. Here are some important security considerations:

  • Source Code Review: If you are concerned about security, consider reviewing the extension's source code before installing it.
  • Permissions: Ensure that the extension has the minimum necessary permissions to function correctly.
  • Input Validation: Extensions that accept user input should validate that input to prevent cross-site scripting (XSS) and other attacks.
  • Regular Updates: Keep your extensions up to date to patch security vulnerabilities.
  • Trusted Sources: Only download extensions from trusted sources, like the MediaWiki Extension Directory.
  • Disable Unused Extensions: Disable any extensions that you are not using.

Advanced Topics

  • Developing Extensions: If you have programming experience, you can develop your own extensions to meet specific needs. The MediaWiki Developer Documentation provides detailed information on extension development.
  • Hooks: Extensions often use hooks to modify MediaWiki's behavior. Hooks are points in the MediaWiki code where extensions can inject their own code.
  • API Integration: Many extensions interact with the MediaWiki API to access and manipulate data. See API.
  • Extension Conflicts: Sometimes, two or more extensions may conflict with each other, causing errors or unexpected behavior. Resolving extension conflicts can be challenging, requiring careful analysis and configuration.

Related Concepts

Extensions are a fundamental aspect of MediaWiki's power and flexibility. By understanding how to find, install, manage, and secure extensions, you can tailor your wiki to meet your specific needs and create a truly customized online experience.

Main Page Help:Contents MediaWiki Manual:Configuration Manual:Installation Extension Directory Semantic MediaWiki VisualEditor Gadget API

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