Difference between revisions of "Bots"
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A '''bot''' is a computer program that automatically retrieves or updates wiki pages when it is executed. In general, bots are used for repetitive maintenance tasks, whose volume and characteristics are too large to be performed manually by users. | A '''bot''' is a computer program that automatically retrieves or updates wiki pages when it is executed. In general, bots are used for repetitive maintenance tasks, whose volume and characteristics are too large to be performed manually by users. | ||
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== Framework and interface for bot development == | == Framework and interface for bot development == | ||
| − | Bots do not access the wiki through the normal graphical user interface. MediaWiki has an API (Application Programming Interface) available for this purpose. An API is a protocol for standardised communication between two computer programs. Check | + | Bots do not access the wiki through the normal graphical user interface. MediaWiki has an API (Application Programming Interface) available for this purpose. An API is a protocol for standardised communication between two computer programs. Check for more information. |
To access a wiki through the API a bot must have a user account, which has been granted 'bot' [[Help:Assigning permissions|permissions]]. | To access a wiki through the API a bot must have a user account, which has been granted 'bot' [[Help:Assigning permissions|permissions]]. | ||
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[[Category:Help|{{PAGENAME}}]] | [[Category:Help|{{PAGENAME}}]] | ||
Latest revision as of 18:57, 10 June 2011
A bot is a computer program that automatically retrieves or updates wiki pages when it is executed. In general, bots are used for repetitive maintenance tasks, whose volume and characteristics are too large to be performed manually by users.
Developing and executing bots is normally outside the role of normal users, requires programming experience and must be done in coordination with the wiki's admins.
By default, bot edits are hidden in Special:Recent changes.
Framework and interface for bot development[edit]
Bots do not access the wiki through the normal graphical user interface. MediaWiki has an API (Application Programming Interface) available for this purpose. An API is a protocol for standardised communication between two computer programs. Check for more information.
To access a wiki through the API a bot must have a user account, which has been granted 'bot' permissions.