While many computer users prefer to use HTML or the Javascipt programming language to write scripts for their applications, a computer guru may choose to use PHP or ASP to do the same thing. PHP and ASP are similar to each other but have several main differences that set them apart. For example, ASP is written and formatted differently than PHP is, although they provide many of the same functions. In this article, we will go over what ASP and PHP are, what ASP and PHP are used for, and the benefits of both programming languages.

What is ASP

ASP stands for Active Server Pages and is a programming language that is used to bridge the gap between browsers, servers, and computers to produce interactive webpages. ASP is a lot like Javascript in the way that is calls upon references and statements to issue commands. ASP is used in conjunction with HTML, or Hypertext Markup Language, so that it may be easily integrated into any existing webpage. ASP was Microsoft's first server-based script engine and has only been upgraded twice since its release. ASP is a rather common programming language for users who spend a lot of time working with servers which is why almost all web hosting programs offer ASP.What Is The Difference Between ASP and PHP

Applications of ASP

ASP is used to make webpages more interactive and flashy than what standard HTML can provide. ASP can be used for a number of applications that add professionalism to your website. For example, ASP can be used to create image sliders that display multiple pictures for a set amount of time. ASP can also be used to create drop-down menus and pages that fade in and out. The main feature of ASP is the ability to call upon data by creating a reference point within a document that contains the information and then have a command at another point in the document to execute the desired effect. The reference point can be within the same document, a separate document, or a separate database completely. For example, you can use ASP to access a user's computer clock and then display a certain message depending on what time of the day it is.

Why Is ASP Preferred

ASP is preferred by some users over PHP because it offers a different type of interactivity. ASP is like Javascript in that it is used to generate customized functions. ASP is also relatively easy to use once you get used to the way the language is formatted. ASP is backed up by ASP.NET, a reference database and scripting service provided by Microsoft.

What is PHP

PHP is a programming language similar to ASP but is more popular and used for slightly different purposes. PHP uses references and commands like ASP but is formatted differently. PHP allows users to create interactive webpages but is more about flexibility than anything else. PHP allows the user to create his or her own commands that can be interpreted by the browser in the same way as standard commands. PHP integrates with HTML directly from within the browser and can access information from an array of sources.

Applications of PHP

PHP is used for a wide variety of functions. PHP allows you to create image sliders and menus just like ASP does but also allows you to create boxes known as DIV tables. Inside these DIV tables, a user can add whatever content or functions that they choose and have it separated from the rest of the document. PHP allows the user to change the sizes of DIV tables, control the HTML elements of the webpage such as text sizes and colors, background settings, and headers, as well as integrating images wherever the user wants them. PHP allows the user to access information from within the same document or from an external source such as a file that is located in a separate directory on the same server. PHP also allows the user to import program data and display it in an organized fashion.

Why Is PHP Preferred

PHP is preferred by some users over ASP because it is easier for beginners as well as experts to use and maintain websites. PHP allows users to make up their own commands and is supported by millions of users across the web that are willing to help each other through the use of forums and group projects. PHP is constantly being updated and added to while ASP rarely ever changes. PHP is also fast, secure, and reliable while ASP confuses some users.