JavaScript is a client-side scripting language that powers the modern web. From front-end interactivity and web applications to mobile apps and machine learning — discover what makes JavaScript an essential tool for developers everywhere.
JavaScript is considered a client-side scripting language, which means that it operates on the user's browser and does not function on an external device. An example of a language that is not client-side would be MySQL, a server-side language that handles any database requests. JavaScript also does not require that anything be downloaded to the user's devices, as modern browsers have the required software integrated into them. This makes JavaScript much more user-friendly than some other languages can be.
Let's look at some more specific uses of JavaScript in web development:
- 1
Front-End Interactivity
Web development is only made better by the increased interactivity and features that JavaScript offers.
- 2
Web Applications
Web applications are similar to websites, but instead, they get packaged into a neat little box, which improves control over security and more.
- 3
Browser Games
The modern web browser has come a long way; developers even make robust games that function in a browser.
- 4
Back End Web Development
Web development has come a long way, and now JavaScript is so robust it can even be used to manage the back end of websites and web applications.
- 5
Mobile Applications
JavaScript can also be used to build an application for non-web contexts. The features and uses of JavaScript make it a powerful tool for creating mobile applications. Using React Native, we can build mobile applications for different operating systems — write once, use it anywhere!
- 6
Machine Learning
Libraries like ml5.js and tensorflow.js allow you to apply machine learning models in modern web development.
JavaScript is all about: prioritizing user experience over developer experience.