JavaScript: When & Where To Use It

JavaScript is the most popular programming language in the world. Most programmers and developers have at the very least a basic understanding of it. They can’t help but learn it because it’s all around us. 

Most webpages and browsers are made with and support JavaScript, especially since it is the only programming language native to web browsers making it the language that appears almost everywhere. Plus, with the code being able to run outside of the browser, developers tend to use it for its versatility. But, what is JavaScript, and why should you know about it? 

What is JavaScript? 

JavaScript is a simple programming language to create the front-end and back-end of complex applications. Developing elements to enhance the functionality and user experience contributes to user interactivity. Plus, when it iscombined with other languages like HTML and CSS, it helps create a website’s front-end. HTML is responsible for the style, CSS for the structure, and JavaScript for the logic and interactivity. 

How do developers use JavaScript?

Developers initially used JavaScript to develop interactive and dynamic web pages. However, others have used it since its development to create mobile and website applications, games, and command-line applications. Companies like Microsoft, PayPal, Netflix, eBay, Google, and LinkedIn develop JavaScript applications.

Also Read: Advantages & Disadvantages of Using ReactJS

Pros

1.  Speed

JavaScript has a swift and efficient execution time. It doesn’t need to connect to a server to perform any execution. The script is executed immediately on the client-side browser to avoid using a middleman server. Plus, most major web browsers support just-in-time (JIT) compilation, eliminating the need to compile code. 

2.  Simplicity

Compared to many other programming languages, JavaScript is easier to learn. Its creators developed its structure to be simple, seemingly an intentional move to allow developers ease of learning and promote versatility. Plus, its simplicity helps developers to spot errors quickly and to make the necessary changes to rectify any mistakes.

3.  Popularity

JavaScript is everywhere. You almost can’t avoid it. Since it’s so widely used, there are countless documentation, guides, and other tools on the language and how it works—giving people needing to learn it lots of material to learn about the language. 

4. Versatility

JavaScript’s capabilities are incredibly vast, improving with time. Developers can use it to develop both the front-end and back-end. Plus, many libraries and frameworks are rooted in JavaScript, affording the development of either side and many interactive capabilities since those libraries and frameworks are constantly improving. 

Cons

1.  Browser Compatibility.

The problem with JavaScript browser compatibility lies with its translation from browser to browser. Different browsers interpret the language differently, so the intention of your code may not translate across browsers in the same way, leaving developers to check how each browser interprets their code and possibly adjust codes depending on the browser. 

2.  Client-Side Security

JavaScript is executed on the client-side of the browser, leaving this side of the browser vulnerable to bugs, irresponsible usage, and malicious purposes, which affects the overall security while using it.

3.  No Debugging

Since developers run code in a browser that doesn’t support debugging and shows errors, it may be tricky to detect problems. So, developers may need to be more intentional in their search for the errors that the browser won’t highlight.