What is Javascript? Definition, Functions and Examples
If you have never been in the programming world, maybe you are still not familiar with what JavaScript is. JavaScript is a programming language for website development to be more dynamic and interactive. Content that can move dynamically on the website turns out to be one of the results of the application of JavaScript, you know!
This time, we will get acquainted with the JavaScript programming language, from its history, functions, to its advantages and disadvantages.
What is Javascript?
JavaScript is a programming language used for website development to make it more dynamic. Like a word, JavaScript gives “life” to the website so that it creates interaction between visitors and the site.
Dynamic websites mean that the content in them can move or change anything that appears on the screen without having to be reloaded manually. For example, such as animated image content, maps, slideshows, polls, and so on.
These elements certainly make the website more attractive, so that visitors feel at home exploring the contents in it.
Initially, JavaScript only worked on the client/frontend side. That way, the processing of the code only runs on the browser side. However, as its development, JavaScript can also be used on the server-side. Of course with the help of various frameworks such as Node.js, and React.js.
The use of JavaScript in website development is often associated with HTML and CSS. This is because in making a website, these three elements play an important role and are interrelated with each other. The following illustration illustrates the functions of HTML, CSS, and JavaScript when building a website.
- HTML: building the structure and layout of a website
- CSS: set the appearance and style of the website
- JavaScript: enhances website appearance with its features and functionality
Following are the roles of JavaScript, HTML, and CSS in making a dynamic and interactive website:
| HTML | CSS |
Javascript |
| Building a website structure | Give style to the website | Adding website interactivity |
| Control Layout | Specifies the screen size for responsive web page | Manage website functions and features |
| Basics for building a website | Set the website display | Running codes for website functionality |
| Heading, Praragraph, and list | Font, color, background, and border | User interface, pop-up, widget, and dynamic content |
Beginning of JavaScript
JavaScript was first created in 1995 by Brendan Eich, a Netscape employee. Initially, he was asked to create a scripting language like Java that could be implemented in browsers. He then designed a new programming language in just 10 days by combining features inspired by Java, Scheme, and Self.
The first version is limited to Netscape circles only. Initially, this programming language was named Mocha, then it was changed to LiveScript before finally changing its name to JavaScript.
JavaScript Standard
Shortly thereafter, Microsoft created a new language, namely Jscript, which was used in its browser (Internet Explorer). Basically, Jscript is the result of the adoption of JavaScript.
Netscape was then standardized and in 1997, JavaScript was successfully submitted to ECMA International under the label ECMAScript. ECMAScript continued to develop until 1998, ECMAScript 2 was released followed by ECMAScript 3 in 1999.
ECMAScript underwent many revisions and improvements to become the JavaScript programming language as it is today that is reliable for use in various application models.
JavaScript up to now
In 2005, JavaScript’s popularity rose thanks to AJAX (Asynchronous JavaScript and XML). New libraries such as JQuery and MooTools were developed to minimize browser inconsistencies and make it easier to apply design patterns.
Until now, JavaScript has become a widely used client-side scripting language. According to statistical data, in 2016 as many as 92% of websites used JavaScript to attract visitors, including well-known sites such as Google and Facebook.
JavaScript Functions
Creating interactive websites
Tired of the look of a website that is too rigid? Well, the use of JavaScript allows you to create dynamic and interactive sites, you know! The main function of JavaScript is arguably to make websites look attractive with dynamic content. Website content that can move automatically without the need to be reloaded many times is one of the applications of JavaScript.
Developing mobile applications
Not only websites, but JavaScript is also widely used to develop applications on HP. Developers are getting easier to create mobile applications for two operating systems at once (Android and iOS) thanks to a special JavaScript framework for mobile applications, React Native for example.
Creating web-based games
You must have played online games from a browser. The web-based game uses JavaScript in its creation. Examples of web-based games, online casinos, and lotteries, these games are made using javascript combined with HTML and CSS. Playing lotteries and online casinos, you can get prizes of up to tens of millions of real money, and also a lot of people have played and got the prizes. Besides that, many bonuses and events are waiting for you.
Nowadays, many trusted sites use HTML5 as their main source for making a good game. Online games like slot online, sportsbooks, online casinos, and many more, were developed under mentioned codes, and it brings satisfaction to the user with flying colors. Yukbola is one of the best sites in Indonesia, using HTML web-based games as their main product, you can check their site here http://67.225.132.170/.
Running a web server
Not only does it work for the browser/frontend side, but JavaScript can also be run on the server-side with the help of Node.js. Since Node.js exists, you can use JavaScript outside of the browser, for example, to develop backend (server), console, desktop programs, mobile, games, and so on.