Netscape’s Gecko: The Next-Generation Layout Engine This article begins by introducing the function of a layout engine. The article goes on to tell of some of the problems of the present day layout engine, one being the fact that they are too big. It states that the need for a powerful layout engine that could fit easily onto a portable device was a major reason why Netscape began developing its new layout engine -Gecko- back in 1997. This article examines the Gecko engine, explain how it works and talks about how the user might put Gecko to work in their own applications. The development of the project Gecko is open sourced; meaning it