What is JavaScript?
JavaScript is a programming language used mostly in web design as a client-side tool (ie. it is run on the user's machine rather than on the web server). Despite the name, it is not that closely related to the language
Java
.
The main impact that JavaScript has had on web design is to help make web pages interactive. The phrase 'dynamic HTML' refers to a group of technologies, including JavaScript 1.2, which allow this interactivity. An example of JavaScripted interactivity is given at the bottom of this page.
Which browsers can run JavaScript?
Modern browsers all have the ability to run the latest version of JavaScript (1.3), although it is possible in these to disable its running. Support for the earliest form of JavaScript (1.0) begins with Netscape 2 and Internet Explorer 3.
The picture below gives an example of how JavaScript can be used within an HTML page to provide interactivity. Try moving your mouse over it, then clicking on it.
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