What are the benefits and drawbacks of running the script directly versus the CGI variant for checking Apache modules?

When checking Apache modules, running the script directly is faster and simpler as it doesn't involve the overhead of the CGI process. However, using the CGI variant allows for better control over the environment and can be useful for more complex setups. It ultimately depends on the specific requirements and preferences of the user.

```php
<?php

// Running the script directly
$output = shell_exec('httpd -M');
echo $output;

// Using the CGI variant
$cgiOutput = shell_exec('cgi-bin/httpd -M');
echo $cgiOutput;

?>