Modern VPS platforms allow for users to leverage popular programming languages and frameworks to perform a wide variety of tasks. Applications can be written in languages such as Javascript, and websites can be written in languages such as HTML, CSS, and PHP. In this article, we will discuss some of the most popular programming languages and frameworks you can use on a VPS.
Topics Include:
- Programming Language vs Scripting Language
- Top Programming Languages
- Top Programming Frameworks
- Languages to Manage Servers
- Conclusion
Programming Language vs Scripting Language
While the term programming language is used to describe languages such as PHP and HTML, these are actually scripting languages, which differ from programming languages such as C++. Scripting languages are frequently used to automate program tasks and parse data sets whereas programming languages are used to write computer programs.
Think of programming languages as instructions, telling the computer what to do when a certain program is run. Scripting languages can be thought of as helpers, assisting the program in carrying out certain tasks. For example, a program designed to analyze sets of raw data may use scripting languages to parse out relevant pieces of information from the rest of the data set.
In addition to programming languages and scripting languages, there are additional language types such as markup and style sheet languages that serve auxiliary functions in computer programming, such as telling the website what text to display and where to display it. While we briefly touch on these languages below, the majority of the examples given here are either scripting languages and programming languages.
For the purposes of this article, we will be using the term programming language to describe both programming and scripting languages. While these terms are generally used interchangeably, it is important to know the difference.
Top Programming Languages for VPS
Due to the level of control VPS users have over their own servers, users can perform far more complex operations using custom coded solutions. Shared servers generally have limited toolsets and only support a few select languages to perform tasks. VPS platforms, by contrast, give you all of the tools you need to set up your server to work with most of the popular programming languages in use today.
Here are the top programming languages used to develop websites and web-based applications:
Javascript
One of the core technologies of the modern internet, Javascript is commonly used to manage the behavior of web pages as they appear in browsers. Some examples of Javascript-based programming are web page animations, pop-up ads, and media streaming. Most of the features you use on websites regularly are written in some combination of Javascript, CSS, and HTML.
HTML
Another core technology, HTML is short for Hypertext Markup Language and it is used to generate text and formatting for web pages. Whenever you go to a website and see text, you are seeing HTML.
CSS
As a style sheet language, CSS provides style to the text you see on a web page. Using CSS, text color, font, and more can be changed. If you see a web page with fancy font and flashy colors, chances are they have custom CSS in place. Combined with HTML, CSS can be used to dictate the spacing between page elements as well as the size of the page elements themselves.
PHP
PHP, which stands for Hypertext Preprocessor, is a widely-used server-side scripting language for web development. Its primary purpose is to generate dynamic web content, enabling the creation of interactive websites and web applications. PHP seamlessly integrates with HTML, allowing developers to embed code within web pages. It can interact with databases, handle forms, manage user sessions, and perform a wide range of tasks crucial for web functionality. With a vast ecosystem of libraries and frameworks, PHP is a versatile and accessible choice for developing websites, from simple blogs to complex e-commerce platforms.
Java
One of the most popular VPS programming languages in the world, Java was designed with an emphasis on portability. This means that applications written in Java can be moved to any other platform that supports Java without needing to recompile the source code for the application. Put simply, Java applications can be moved seamlessly without needing to rebuild the program from the original source code. Java is also the development of applications such as those used on Android mobile devices.
Perl
Another popular VPS programming language, Perl is commonly used for system administration and network management. One popular example of an application that uses this language extensively is cPanel.
Python
A highly-popular general purpose VPS programming language, Python emphasizes code readability. This readability combined with the fact that it is pre-installed on most modern computers makes it an easy language to learn for beginners. It is used in a wide-variety of applications, particularly in the context of information security.
C++
C++ is a general purpose VPS programming language that’s designed with an emphasis on performance and usability, and it is used in a wide-variety of applications. Some examples of uses for C++ include desktop applications such as video games as well as more critical applications such as satellites and aerospace equipment.
Top Programming Frameworks
A web programming framework is a pre-established set of tools, libraries, and guidelines that simplifies and standardizes the process of building web applications. It provides developers with a structured foundation for creating web-based software, streamlining common tasks such as routing, database interaction, and user authentication. These frameworks often include best practices for coding, security features, and utilities to enhance productivity. By using a web programming framework, developers can save time, reduce repetitive tasks, and ensure the maintainability and scalability of their web applications, making it easier to create robust and feature-rich websites and web services.
Ruby on Rails
Ruby on Rails, often referred to as Rails, is a web framework designed for rapid development of web applications. It emphasizes convention over configuration, providing a set of best practices and sensible defaults to streamline development. With a strong focus on developer productivity, Rails is known for its elegant syntax, modularity, and a vast ecosystem of gems (libraries) that extend its functionality. It’s a top choice for startups and businesses looking to build scalable and maintainable web applications.
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Django
Django is a high-level Python web framework that prioritizes simplicity and reusability. It includes an ORM for database management, built-in admin interfaces, and a robust security system. Django’s “batteries-included” philosophy means it comes with a wide range of tools, making it perfect for developers building content-heavy, data-driven web applications like content management systems, social networks, and e-commerce platforms.
Node.js with Express.js
Express.js is a minimal and flexible Node.js web application framework designed for building fast and efficient web applications and APIs. It’s well-suited for real-time and single-page applications, thanks to its non-blocking I/O capabilities. With Node.js as the backend runtime, it’s an ideal choice for developers looking to create lightweight, high-performance applications.
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Laravel
Laravel is a powerful and widely-used open-source PHP web framework, created for simplifying and expediting web application development. Its primary purpose is to streamline the process of building robust, scalable, and maintainable web applications. Laravel offers a wide range of tools and features for developers, including an expressive syntax, an elegant ORM (Object-Relational Mapping) system, convenient routing, built-in authentication, and a comprehensive ecosystem of packages. It promotes best practices and encourages efficient code organization, making it easier for developers to construct feature-rich web applications, whether they’re simple websites or complex, enterprise-level systems, while also enhancing code readability and maintainability.
Flask
Flask is a micro web framework for Python, known for its simplicity and flexibility. It provides the essentials for building web applications without imposing a specific structure or set of tools. Flask is ideal for developers who prefer a lightweight, DIY approach, allowing them to choose components and libraries tailored to their project’s needs. It’s commonly used for prototyping, small to medium-sized applications, and as a backend for mobile apps and IoT devices.
Languages to Manage Servers
There are two main languages used to manage services such as SSH connections, depending on what type of operating system your server is running.
Bash
The Bash language is used to manage command-line and login services for Linux-based servers. Through bash, users can securely connect to their server from a remote location and execute an array of different commands. It is a crucial service for any VPS administrator or back-end developer.
Windows Powershell
Windows Powershell is the Microsoft counterpart to Linux’s bash. Just as bash provides a secure remote connection to a server, PowerShell allows Windows users to connect to a remote server.
Conclusion
Now that we’ve reviewed the top ten most popular VPS programming languages, you can better navigate the various options that are available to you. Whether you need to build a website, parse through raw data, or set up an application, one of the aforementioned programming languages will help you get it done.
Learn more from our Managed VPS Hosting Product Guide.
