Which Server-Side Language Is Right For You?

Summary

In this article, we looked at the relative features, benefits and downfalls of all the major server-side development options available today:

• Perl: a mature, cross-platform language that can be hard to understand
• ASP: Microsoft's powerful, Windows-based framework
• Cold Fusion: a powerful, tag-based option for non-programmers
• PHP: a cross-platform, open-source alternative with lots of features built in
• Java: the ultimate in power and flexibility, for serious programmers

Hopefully armed with the low-down on all these options, you're feeling better-equipped to tackle the big decision of which to learn and use for your next project. If you're still in need of some guidance, be sure to drop by our Server-Side Internet Development forum at SitePoint Forums. We'll be glad to help!