The programming language uses scripts to eliminate repetitive tasks. There is no need for compiling in this language type, so error detection and execution take place simultaneously. Whenever there is an error in the code, the errors can be seen in the line. There are different types of scripting languages, which are different from programming languages. In this article, we will answer the question: what is scripting?
What is script language in programming?
Scripting, just like any other form of programming, involves giving instructions to a computer (or a group of computers). Instructions tell the computer what to do, as well as when and how to do it. The purpose of programming languages is to make it possible for programs to interact with each other. Also, scripted programs can be directly controlled by the user through direct commands, buttons, and other means.
For example, when you use the browser window to search for Google or browse Google, you are directly interacting with the browser’s software. A browser application interacts with many other applications simultaneously to provide you with the best experience.
What is the use of scripts?
As we said earlier, scripts automate computer processes and can execute many codes at the same time. The script is used in the following cases:
- Making games
- Backend programming for complex systems
- Remote control systems
- Create web applications
There are different types of scripts, such as store, news, banking portal, social network, license management, sales management system, site builder, etc., each with its application. For example, the store script provides you with complete facilities for designing an online sales site. It has a professional user panel, order status display to the user, product filter, product page, product image gallery, product sharing on social networks, registration comments, delivery notification, invoice, and user membership.
What is script language vs programming language?
Many people may need to learn the difference between scripting and programming languages and use them interchangeably. These two languages are completely different from each other. Those who enter the programming field must know the difference between these two languages. Software development uses scripting and programming languages. It is possible to use scripting languages as programming languages. At the same time, the opposite is not true. Scripting languages are not compiled and have no interpreter.
Programming languages can also be low-level languages, while scripting languages are usually high-level languages. The execution of a script is done quickly and requires less time. In contrast, in programming languages, the execution of a command requires more time due to its compilation.
You can use scripting languages to improve a program and control it. Programming languages are used to create and develop software. Programming languages tend to be more expensive to maintain than scripting languages.
Key features of the script language
- Easy to learn and use: they are often an excellent starting point for those who want to take their first step into development. They are easy to learn and implement. JavaScript and PHP are among the simplest scripting languages.
- Open Source and Free: Most scripting languages are open source, meaning there are no restrictions on using them. All you have to do is study them and integrate them into your existing system. All of them are open source, which means anyone can contribute to their development.
- Powerful and extensible: Scripting languages are powerful enough to handle the necessary tasks (in terms of application). It is also very easy to extend scripting languages. For example, you can add special features if necessary.
- Cross-Platform: Scripting languages are also portable and cross-platform since they can run on a remote server or in a visitor’s browser. In other words, they do not require additional software to run and can be used with any browser on any operating system.
- Lighter RAM requirements: Unlike programming languages, they are not compiled but interpreted instead. In this way, their systems require less RAM.
- Runtime execution: Code can be executed at runtime to configure and modify an application. As a result, scripting languages are crucial for most applications due to their ability to perform this function.
- Security: Scripting languages are designed for security. There are no illegal operations that can be performed from scripts, and even local code cannot access script information.
Languages used for scripting
There are many script commands and script languages in the world. However, today, only a few of these languages are continuously updated to meet users’ needs. Below are some examples of these languages.
JavaScript/ECMAScript
ECMAScript was the basis of JavaScript, the first scripting language. This language supports object-oriented programming. JavaScript code is mostly executed on the user’s system.
PHP
PHP is an object-oriented programming language used in website backends. This language is used to add and create advanced features to website pages with HTML language.
Python
Python ranks second among programming languages because of its simplicity of understanding and coding. Python is also an open-source programming language that can be edited. In addition, this language supports structured and object-oriented programming. Freelance Python programmers can use this language for scripting.
Ruby
Ruby is another scripting language. This language also uses object-oriented programming and is very simple and understandable.
Groovy
This scripting language is written for the Java virtual machine. Groovy is important because you can use Java libraries to extend this language.
Advantages of scripting
Some of the key advantages of scripts are listed below:
- The scripts are open-source and allow users to view and edit them as needed.
- There is no need to compile the files in them, but if necessary, they may sometimes be compiled.
- Scripts are easy to learn and write.
- Different operating systems can easily run scripts.
- Many people and companies use scripts as prototypes for real programs since they’re developed much faster than real programs.
Disadvantages of scripting
Some of the disadvantages of scripts are as follows:
- Their open source allows others to view the source code, which some companies prohibit.
- Before running the script, the user must install a separate interpreter or program.
- In some situations, scripts may be slower than compiled programs.
Conclusion
As we said, scripts are small programs that can automate many repetitive tasks related to web pages. Tasks that a user (human operator) should perform. Scripting enhances the visual appeal of online sites. Scripting languages are used to add functionality to programs created using programming languages. With the growth of dynamic web pages and applications, scripting languages are becoming more in demand. The need for traditional programming structures to build complex software products will never go away.
A scripting language is based on a programming language and has beautiful structures. Each language has its advantages and disadvantages, and they are meant to complement each other. In this article, we discussed the definition of scripting, its uses and the importance of using it. In addition, we examined the difference between scripting and programming languages. We hope this article was useful for you.