Scripts

Q	What are scripts?
A	Scripts are bits of programming code that can be executed on the server or the client machine. While many programs are compiled before they can be executed, scripts are never compiled. The computer interprets the script when the script is executed. There are numerous scripting languages, but the most popular ones are Perl, JavaScript, and VBScript.
Q	What is CGI?
A	CGI stands for Common Gateway Interface, which allows a script or a compiled program to be executed on the Server. These programs provide advanced functionality and customized applications.
Q	What is the difference between a server script and a client script?
A	These terms simply identify the location where the script runs. In some cases it is more efficient for the script to run on the server, and then send the result to the client computer. A script which accesses a large database is a good example of this kind of script. It would be impractical to download the entire database to the client computer. Other times it is more efficient for the script to execute on the client computer. When the script is small and can be downloaded quickly, it may lessen the load on the server if the script is executed at the client.
Q	How do I use CGI with a client-side script?
A	You can't. This is a common misconception. CGI allows scripts to execute on the server. Client-side scripts do not use the CGI interface - they are sent directly to the client machine.
Q	How does JavaScript differ from Java?
A	Java is an object-oriented programming language that is designed to run on any type of computer. It does not require a web browser for execution if the computer has the Java engine installed. Java is similar to a fully compiled language in that Java code is compiled to run on a 'Virtual Machine'. JavaScript is a non-compiled language that executes within a web browser. It is a highly simplified language which is easier to learn and use.
Q	What is VBScript
Q	VBScript is a subset of Visual Basic, a popular programming language created by Microsoft. VBScript commands may be executed on a server or client machine. However, at this time, only Windows NT Servers and Internet Explorer clients can execute VBScript natively. There are plug-in solutions that will allow it to execute in other browsers. VBScript is an excellent choice for Visual Basic programmers especially those whose sites are hosted on Windows NT Servers.
Q	Where can I find more information about Perl, JavaScript, or VBScript?
A	If you search for those words on any of the major search engines, you will find a wealth of information available. You will also find sample scripts that you can modify for use in your web pages. If you would like professional help, The Vision Group provides high quality programming services.
Q	How can I include scripts in my web page?
A	This depends what type of script you are running, and where it will be executed. A CGI script will often be called by a POST or GET reference in the web page. For example: <Form method="POST" Action="/usr/cgi-bin/formmail.pl"> or <Form method="GET" Action="/scripts/validate.asp"> JavaScript and VBScript are generally included right in the web page. If the script will execute on the client machine, it follows a <SCRIPT> tag, and is ended with a </SCRIPT> tag. When a script is to be executed on the server, it begins with <% and ends with %>.