VBScript Alternatives

VBScript or Javascript might be executed when you hit the "submit" button on a Web page.

VBScript is a light-weight version of the Visual Basic programming language. VBScript is one of many scripting languages available. VBScript inserted into an HTML page is used to provide more dynamic content such as form validation, performing calculations or interacting with the user. In addition, scripts are also used by system administrators to perform registry manipulation, creating desktop shortcuts or manipulate system files.

DOS

DOS stands for Disk Operating System; it is a text-based operating system. DOS commands allow you to perform actions such as listing the contents of a directory, copy files, create or remove a directory or execute a file. DOS executables can be files with extension ".exe," ".com" or ".bat." The ".bat" files are called "batch files." Batch files execute functions that can now be performed, often easier, in newer scripting languages such as file or printer maintenance.

Powershell

Powershell is a Windows scripting language based on DOS; it is a command console as is DOS, and is a scripting language. Powershell has something called "Cmdlets." There are "Cmdlets" for date and time manipulation, file and folder manipulation, data handling, system administration tasks and security. Powershell will feel familiar to DOS programmers as well as VBScript writers because of the duality of the environment.

Jscript

Jscript is not a light version of any other language and it is not entirely based on any other environment. It is a limited, scripting language in that it can only be run when there is a host interpreter such as Active Server Pages, Internet Explorer or Windows Script Host. Stand-alone executable programs cannot be created in Jscript.

Javascript

Javascript is a scripting language meant to create more dynamic and interactive Web pages. Javascript is very different from the Java programming language and was not even created by the same company. Javascript is most closely related to VBScript not in format but in what actions each scripting language can execute. Javascript can interact with the Internet user by reacting to events, validate data, detect the user's browser and create cookies.

References

• MSDN: What Is VBScript?
• Microsoft Technet: Windows PowerShell Owner's Manual
• DOS Tips: DOS Batch - File Examples
• MSDN: JScript User's Guide
• Javascript.com: The Definitive JavaScript Resource