VBScripts

VBScript, short for Visual Basic Scripting Edition, is a scripting language developed by Microsoft. It is an interpreted language, meaning the code is executed line by line by a script engine rather than being compiled into machine code beforehand. VBScript was originally introduced in 1996 as part of Internet Explorer 3.0 and has since been integrated into various Microsoft products and operating systems, primarily Windows.

The primary use of VBScript has been for automating tasks on Windows operating systems and for client-side scripting within web pages. It can be used to manipulate the Windows registry, manage files and folders, control other applications, and interact with COM (Component Object Model) objects. On the web, VBScript was once used to add dynamic content and interactivity to web pages, though its usage has significantly declined in favor of JavaScript due to security concerns and browser compatibility issues.

VBScript syntax is similar to that of Visual Basic, making it relatively easy for developers familiar with the language to pick up. It supports variables, data types, control structures (like loops and conditionals), and functions. However, its capabilities are more limited compared to full-fledged programming languages. Due to its integration with the operating system, VBScript can be a powerful tool for system administrators to automate repetitive tasks. However, it has also been exploited by malware authors to spread viruses and malicious code, leading to a general caution in its execution, especially from untrusted sources.