Automated path rewriting for multi-app servers
TL;DR
Reverse proxy for backend devs and DevOps engineers managing multi-app servers that automatically rewrites broken asset paths (e.g., `/style.css` → `/app1/style.css`) in real-time so they can eliminate manual Nginx/.htaccess edits and reduce app deployment failures by 90%
Target Audience
Backend developers and system administrators managing self-hosted web applications.
The Problem
Problem Context
Developers run multiple web apps on one server (e.g., docs, smart home tools) using a central gateway. They route traffic through a proxy to manage access, but links inside apps (e.g., /style.css) break because they point to the wrong folder.
Pain Points
Users waste hours manually fixing paths or editing code every time they deploy. Apps look broken (missing styles, scripts), delaying launches. Teams struggle to share internal tools because pages fail to load properly.
Impact
Broken apps mean lost productivity (e.g., devs can’t test features) and missed deadlines. Teams can’t launch or share work, costing revenue or internal efficiency. Frustration leads to technical debt (e.g., hacky workarounds).
Urgency
The problem blocks launches and sharing. Users can’t move forward until paths are fixed, creating a bottleneck. Manual fixes are unsustainable as apps grow or change.
Target Audience
Backend developers, DevOps engineers, and small teams building internal tools. Anyone hosting multiple apps on a shared server (e.g., VPS, internal networks) faces this issue.
Proposed AI Solution
Solution Approach
PathFix Proxy is a lightweight reverse proxy that automatically rewrites broken paths in multi-app setups. It detects app folders and adjusts links (e.g., /app1/style.css) on the fly, so apps load correctly through the gateway.
Key Features
- App-Specific Rules: Lets users define custom rules per app (e.g., ignore certain paths).
- Zero-Config Setup: Works out of the box for common frameworks (React, Django, etc.).
- Analytics Dashboard: Shows broken links and traffic patterns to optimize performance.
User Experience
Users install PathFix Proxy as a reverse proxy (e.g., pathfixproxy.local). They define their apps in a simple config file. The proxy then fixes all paths automatically, so apps load correctly. No more manual edits—just deploy and go.
Differentiation
Unlike manual Nginx rules or .htaccess, PathFix Proxy learns app structures and rewrites paths dynamically. It’s faster to set up, easier to maintain, and works across all frameworks. No admin access or complex CLI needed.
Scalability
Start with one server ($20/mo). Add more servers or teams as needed ($50–$99/mo). Upsell advanced features (e.g., API monitoring, auto-detection for new apps). Self-hosted or cloud-based.
Expected Impact
Apps load correctly instantly, saving hours of manual fixes. Teams can launch and share work without broken pages. Reduces technical debt and frustration, letting devs focus on features.