From their humble beginnings these languages have grown. Thanks largely to add-on libraries packed with software and the transition from Unix to Windows and Apple, they have become an essential tool for solving several different tasks. Most notably however for creating CGI scripts on the internet and administering NT server systems. .
(The World of Scripting Languages, David Barron, 2000).
SCRIPTING And SCRIPTING LANGUAGES.
Scripting.
Recent/Modern scripting can have several definitions thanks to its versatility, enhanced functionality and ease of use. Firstly it can mean using a scripting language instead of a typical programming language for tasks such as system administration and system programming. .
Secondly it can also mean when a scripting language is used to modify and/or automate the functions of a system that already exists. .
Finally the phrase scripting could also be describing a new method of programming. A method which allows applications to be developed much quicker and easier and also provides them with the opportunity to adapt and grow. Therefore providing the user with a versatile application that can achieve constantly revised and altered specifications. (David Barron, 2000).
These definitions of the term scripting provide a certain understanding of what can be achieved when using a scripting language to accomplish a specific task.
Scripting Languages.
When using one or more of these forms of scripting a particular scripting language must be used. Since scripting can involve performing many different tasks these languages must vary greatly. However to be defined as a scripting language they must all also share definite similarities.
Scripting languages are sometimes referred to as glue languages or system integration languages.
This is because they are all designed for "gluing" applications, firstly components are created with system programming languages and they are then glued together using scripting languages.