JavaScript is one of the most well-known programming languages for developing web applications. However, like all computer languages, JavaScript has certain advantages and disadvantages that most programmers should definitely know.
Here are some pros and cons of JavaScript:
Pros of using JavaScript
The following are the advantages of using JavaScript:
High speed
JavaScript is well-known to be ultra-fast because it runs with client-side scripting which means it does not require any web server’s support to execute functions. With JavaScript, most of the functions are executed on the user’s computer.
Beginner friendly
One of the reasons why JavaScript is popular is because it is very easy to understand and learn. If you are new to programming and you wish you create web applications, then JavaScript is a good starting point.
Well documented
Another good reason why JavaScript is a good programming language is because it is well documented. If you have encountered an error or a bug, just simply search it on the web and there will be answers.
Interoperability
JavaScript is capable of working with many other programming languages such as HTML, PHP, and Perl. So if you’re planning on learning other languages after JavaScript, transitioning won’t be much of an issue.
Independency
JavaScript is independent. No plugins required to get you started.
Cons of using JavaScript
The following are the disadvantages of using JavaScript:
Security
Security is one of the biggest issues when it comes to using JavaScript because JavaScript files are explicitly imported to the web pages thus malicious code can be executed on the client machine.
Controllable
Since JavaScript is imported and displayed publicly, browser users can easily control the codes written in JavaScript. In fact, since it’s public, other developers can download your source code and reuse them for their own.
Compatibility
There are cases that JavaScript is interpreted differently by browsers especially if you’re using DOM.
Now that you know the advantages and disadvantages of using JavaScript, it’s time to ask yourself the following questions:
Is it worth learning JavaScript in 2020?
Absolutely! In fact, big companies like PayPal, Netflix, and Uber are still using JavaScript to run their web pages properly.
If you’re just starting out, JavaScript is definitely worth learning as it will take you to new frameworks such as Vue.js and React which is what the developers are currently using.
Bottom line
JavaScript is a very powerful programming language. It has been used for a very long time and now it’s starting to evolve into a better tool for creating web applications.
If you’re a beginner and don’t have much knowledge about programming, it is best if you start to learn the basics of HTML and CSS then transition to JavaScript. The reason is that JavaScript is mainly used to control the elements of HTML. So if you really don’t know much about HTML and CSS, then you’ll most likely get lost.
To learn more about JavaScript, check out our JavaScript blog page.
