Technology Fundamentals
Scripting Language
Definition
A scripting language is a programming language that is used to manipulate, customize, and automate the facilities of an existing system. They are usually interpreted rather than compiled.
Why It Matters
Scripting languages are excellent for "gluing" other systems together and automating tasks. They allow for rapid development because they don't require a separate compilation step.
Contextual Example
Python, JavaScript, and shell scripts are common examples. A system administrator might write a Python script to automate the process of backing up files on a server every night.
Common Misunderstandings
- The line between scripting languages and general-purpose programming languages is blurry. Languages like Python are powerful enough for both.
- Scripting languages are often used for web development (JavaScript), system administration (Bash, PowerShell), and data analysis (Python, R).