Java and JavaScript

Java and JavaScript both are programming languages based on the Java platform. The difference between them is that Java is an object-oriented programming language while JavaScript is a scripting language. 

What is Java?

Java is a programming language that was developed by Sun Micro Systems for use in embedded applications, such as appliances and mobile phones. The idea behind developing Java was to have a platform independent programming language. It was first released in 1995 for use on desktop PCs and later wireless devices such as cellphones. The idea behind Java’s popularity is that it can run on any platform without the need for additional software. It is little slow in terms of performance when compared to other programming languages like VB, C++ or C# but it can be used without the installation of additional software on computers with Windows 95 OS or higher versions, UNIX OS and Mac OS X.

Functions of Java

Java is a programming language that allows for the creation of plug-in modules that can be used in other programs to perform further tasks. It is ideal for creating applications for Internet browsers as well as for use with mobile phone applications. It also has the ability to run on servers and desktops. It has a large library of functions that can be used when programming so it can be better than other languages in terms of function performance.

What is JavaScript?

JavaScript is a programming language capable of running in various web browsers such as Internet Explorer and Netscape Navigator. It is a scripting language since it can be used without the need for installation of any software. JavaScript has many popular features like animation, hyperlink manipulation and data processing just to name a few. The feature that makes JavaScript so popular is the ease in which client side scripts can be embedded into web pages making it possible to open up new opportunities for web developers.

Why should we prefer JavaScript to Java?

There are many advantages of using JavaScript over Java as mentioned earlier. However, there are also disadvantages to using JavaScript as well. The main disadvantage is the performance of the language since it is really slow compared to Java. Another disadvantage is that JavaScript can only be used in HTML pages which means that it cannot be used on IIS, ASP or any other server based web page so it is suggested that you check the compatibility parameters before using JavaScript in your web page otherwise your website will not work properly.

Java and JavaScript: Difference

1) Performance

Java is very slow when it comes to performance when compared to other programming languages like VB or C++. JavaScript is much faster and can run on Windows, Linux and UNIX with minimal difficulty.

2) Libraries

Java has a large collection of functions that can be used by programmers if they wish. This means that any function you may need for your application can be easily found in the library. JavaScript does not have this feature which means that you will have to write all your own functions as well as find out where JavaScript functions are located in the library so you can use them.

3) Compatibility

JavaScript is compatible with all web browsers such as Apple Safari, Mozilla Firefox, Opera and more. JavaScript can also be used on Internet Explorer 6.0 or above. Compatible with all computer operating systems including Windows XP, Vista and Windows 7, Mac OSX and more. Compatible with mobile devices such as BlackBerry, iPhone and Nokia S70

4) Speed

JavaScript is a very slow programming language when compared to other favourites like C# or VB.

5) Support from Vendors

Java was developed by Sun Microsystems while JavaScript was created by Netscape co-founder James L. Barksdale. 

6) License

Java uses the GNU public license while JavaScript uses a license from the Netscape Corporation.

7) Installation

Java is written in Java Compiler and needs to be installed on your PC. It can be added to any other applications like IIS server or ASP which is one of its major strengths. On the other hand, JavaScript can also be added to any web page as a script but can also be used on any HTML pages by embedding it into your web page code easily reducing development time and improving performance.

Conclusion

Both Java and JavaScript are programming languages with similar capabilities but they are used differently based on the operating system they are being run by, desktop or server-based applications. JavaScript can only be used with web pages while Java can be used for web pages or desktop applications. JavaScript takes less time to develop applications and has very little programming requirements making it ideal for use in both small- and large-scale businesses.