Java

Definitions

Java is a programming language developed at Sun Microsystems. Of the popular programming languages, it is probably most similar to C++.

JavaScript is an HTML scripting language that was loosely based on Java.

Usage

Java's most common usage is as an "applet" in a web page. Applets are "small" programs embedded in web pages and executed on the browser's computer (the client).

Java is also now being used in so-called "Java Server Pages" or JSP's. These are web pages created by Java programs running on the server-side of the connection. You might notice JSP web pages by their ".jsp" suffix. 

JavaScript is commonly used to provide interactivity or some other minor bell/whistle to your web page.

More Info

To find out more:

• There are many excellent JavaScript sites, and we will be getting a presentation on these in class.
• Java is a true programming language and has a much larger scope. If you're going to write a real applet or other Java application, then I recommend a class or a good book.

BTW, Microsoft is reportedly removing Java as a standard plug-in in its XP version of Internet Explorer.

Next slide ... or Slides index