NODE.js vs PHP: Which Back-End Language Is Better?
Both PHP and Node.js are widely used for the back end in web development, with the former being quite dated. Both of these backend technologies come with distinct features altogether. Both languages are typically executed server-side, running things outside of the user's view.
WHAT IS PHP?
PHP was started in the year 1995 by Rasmus Lerdorf. PHP stands for Hypertext Preprocessor and was exclusively created for web development.
It can easily be embedded within HTML or ran independently as it's own file. You will commonly see it within the tags:
"".
WHAT IS NODE.js?
Node.js was created by Ryan Dahl in the year 2009. It is a backend environment that makes use of JavaScript for its application development.
It's quite revolutionary since Javascript itself wasn't designed to create server-side code, so it gives the language a new dynamic, and it's one of the reasons why it's now a dominating language in the industry.
PHP VS NODE.js: THE KEY DIFFERENCES
A major difference between PHP and Node.js is the way they implement code. PHP is known for implementing code in sequential order. The user cannot move to the next code until the code is executed.
It is completely opposite in the case of Node.js. It does not work in a synchronous manner. If a code cannot be completed on time, the user can move to the next code. This can be quite forgiving for developers in comparison to most other languages.
The next difference is within the frameworks between the PHP and Node.js.
Frameworks enable developers to write codes that are well-planned and structured; they play an important role to speed up the development process.
PHP frameworks include Symphony, Phalcon, Laravel, FuelPHP, and Codeigniter and so on. These frameworks are very well established that it is easy to find a developer who is an expert in a particular niche.
On the other hand, if you compare with Node.js, you will see their frameworks are growing but they are limited when compared with PHP. Some of the popular frameworks are Express, Sails.js, Meteor.js, and Derby.js.
PROS OF PHP
PHP is designed for the web. Because it was created particularly for the web, it is well equipped to perform with servers, databases, and HTML. For this reason, it has become a successful server-side solution.
PHP has been around for decades. This means it has a huge following of its community. And a wide array of codes and frameworks.
Wordpress, one of the most widely used CMS, heavily utilizes PHP within its backend. Chances are a modern PHP developer probably knows quite a bit about Wordpress development.
CONS OF PHP
A major issue with PHP is that it is difficult to maintain its codes. PHP tends to overlap the HTML and language syntax in the files.
PROS OF NODE.js
Because of its asynchronous nature, it works quickly and simultaneously. If you choose to use Node.js, you can create server-side applications while making total use of the CPU device. Hence, it makes a perfect choice for all kinds of applications whether it is a real-time, data-driven or single page.
Developers have the freedom to choose the pattern as there are no strict rules. They can access the NPM that helps them to make the process faster.
CONS OF NODE.js
Due to its asynchronous nature, computing heavy CPU works may get slower. Hence, it is not ideal for intensive works.
To conclude, both PHP and Node.js were created to improve web development and have growing communities on either side. The choice for you depends on the kind of project you are working on, so take into consideration their strengths & weaknesses.
To conclude, both PHP and Node.js were created to improve web development and have growing communities on either side. The choice for you depends on the kind of project you are working on, so take into consideration their strengths & weaknesses.
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