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GNU Bash vs VBScript: What are the differences?
Introduction
This article compares the key differences between GNU Bash and VBScript. Below are the six specific differences between these two scripting languages:
Syntax and Structure: GNU Bash follows a Unix-like shell syntax and primarily focuses on running commands in the shell. On the other hand, VBScript uses a more traditional procedural programming syntax and structure, similar to Visual Basic. This difference in syntax influences the way scripts are written and executed.
Platform Compatibility: GNU Bash is primarily used in Unix-like operating systems such as Linux, macOS, and other Unix-based systems. In contrast, VBScript is designed for Windows operating systems, making it more suitable for automation tasks and web scripting on Windows platforms. The platform compatibility is a significant distinction between the two scripting languages.
Functionality and Libraries: GNU Bash is mainly focused on executing system commands and managing files and processes in a shell environment. It provides built-in functionality for common tasks like text processing, file manipulation, and environment management. VBScript, on the other hand, offers a broader range of functionality including access to Windows-specific features, COM objects, and integration with other Microsoft Office applications.
Development and Debugging: In terms of development, GNU Bash scripts can be created using any plain text editor. Bash does not have a dedicated integrated development environment (IDE) for development, debugging, or error checking. In contrast, VBScript provides a more integrated development experience with an IDE like the Microsoft Visual Studio, which includes debugging tools, syntax checking, and code completion.
Scripting Languages Purpose: GNU Bash is primarily used as a shell scripting language for automating command-line tasks, system administration, and process orchestration on Unix-like systems. VBScript, on the other hand, is mainly used for web scripting, automation, and Windows desktop applications. The purpose and use-case of these scripting languages vary based on the platform and scripting needs.
Portability: GNU Bash scripts can be more portable between different Unix-like systems as long as the required commands and utilities are available. However, due to the platform-specific nature of VBScript, scripts written in VBScript may not work or require modifications when run on non-Windows operating systems. Portability is an important consideration when choosing between these two scripting languages.
In summary, GNU Bash and VBScript differ in terms of syntax, platform compatibility, functionality, development experience, purpose, and portability. These differences make them better suited for different use cases and platforms.
If you have a file (demo.txt) that has 3 columns:
Column-1 Column-2 Column-3
Row-1a Row-2a Row-3a
Row-1b Row-2b Row-3b
Row-1c Row-2c Row-3c
Row-1d Row-2d Row-3d
Row-1e Row-2e Row-3e
and you want to only view the first column of the file in your CLI, run the following:
awk {'print $1'} demo.txt
Column-1
Row-1a
Row-1b
Row-1c
Row-1d
Row-1e
If you want to print the second column of demo.txt, just replace $1 with $2
Pros of GNU Bash
- Customizable3
- Powerful scripting language3
- Widely adopted2
- Cross platform0
Pros of VBScript
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Cons of GNU Bash
- Too Slow1
