Simplest technology for distributing Web Services

manpreet Best Answer 2 years ago

Is there a way to meet the following criteria in distributing a Web Service to Windows machines?

1) Automatic installation and configuration of the Web Server.

2) No configuration (or even awareness) of a Web Server required by the customer.

3) No prompts to download and install Java or .NET - especially anything after .NET 2.0; those installs / restarts can take forever!

In short, is there a way to deliver a single install process that installs the Web Server along with a simple web app without requiring lengthy installations of pre-requisites? Something for even the most non-technical of users?

.NET's WCF almost meets the requirements but getting .NET updated up to 3.0 / 3.5 is a lengthy process and can be a turn-off for customers, even if the install holds their hand through the whole thing.

Rubyscript2exe was also very close, but it is extremely touchy and out-dated.

I am open to any technology / programming language - just looking for the slickest distribution process for my customers that meets the above three criteria.