“Are Java and JavaScript the same thing?” It’s a question that has confused countless beginners—and, honestly, even a few seasoned professionals. At first glance, the names make them seem like siblings in the world of programming, but that’s far from the truth. Despite the shared name, Java and JavaScript are as different as chalk and cheese. This misconception often leads to confusion when choosing between the two. Let’s clear up the fog, dive into their key differences, and figure out which one aligns best with your goals.
What is Java?
Java is the powerhouse of programming languages, known for its versatility and reliability. Created by Sun Microsystems in 1995, Java has a rich history of revolutionizing software development. Its core philosophy, “Write Once, Run Anywhere” (WORA), means Java code runs seamlessly across different platforms, whether it’s Windows, Mac, or Linux