Frequently Asked Questions

These questions are meant help you solve specific but common problems that may pop up when using this language. They are meant to be read after you have gone through the tutorial and begin actual development.

Why does my website run in a modern up to date browser, but not an older version of Internet Explorer?

Older versions of web browsers do not implement the most current features of the web languages, and in several instances forgo web standards in favor of proprietary solutions. You can never be sure that your website will run in all browsers without testing to see if your website works consistently. If you cannot test your website in multiple browsers online resources such as Can I Use allow you to look up what a browser supports.

When should we avoid JavaScript?

Despite the fact that JavaScript is a widely implemented and standardized language amongst web browsers you should always check to see if what you are trying to accomplish can be done in HTML, CSS, or (in some cases) a server side language first. This is because several older or low powered devices such as mobile phones have difficulties handling JavaScript. Also computers with higher security needs often disable JavaScript due to potential flaws. JavaScript is a very powerful tool, but remember to use it sparingly and look for alternative solutions.

Are there any other languages for programming client side on the web besides JavaScript

Due to the fact that client side programming languages require the cooperation of all browser makers, JavaScript is the only language for client side web development. However several languages can be rewritten by a computer, via a process known as compilation, into JavaScript. A list of such programming languages is maintained on AltJs.