Just starting out in Code Dev

[nyjbarnes]

Hey Folks,

I am sure you get a lot of this, or at least I used to when I was in IT Networking. I want to see if App Dev is for me. I took some basic VB6 courses in college; it was kinda fun, but I was lazy then. I need to know how to get started here so that I don't get burned out on information overload, but I can have attainable, measurable results and make progress.

I assume you need to start out with the most basic language and move up...I need some pointers as to where to start. Thoughts anyone?

I know HTML pretty good, but that is about the extent of it. I have some history with VB6 but I couldn't program a hello world control box anymore so, just to give you an idea of my level of expertise.

[sde]

well are you leaning toward .NET development? ( since you posted here ) If so, I would highly recommend you use c# if you are not that dependant on VB anymore.

c# is 100% .NET compatible and unlike vb, there is no legacy code supported which might just confuse you.

another advantage of learning c# is that you code in c style syntax. this is nice so when you move to any other language such as java, c++, c, php, perl, etc.. you will be already comfortable and have a handle on the basic syntax.

c# will allow you to code both windows applications and asp.net web apps. it's a nice language, i really like it.

however .. if you are undecided on .NET, and you are going to be coding web apps mostly, i might recommend php for a couple reasons.

php is an excellent 1st language. it can be very simple, or as complex as you want. you don't need any expensive IDE to code with, and most web hosts support php.

php is a little more forgiving than c# in the sense that you don't have to keep track of what data types each variable is. it does all that for you.

php is also a c style syntax language, so it will be easy to move to other popular languages.

[nyjbarnes]

I don't have a preference as to where I start. I posted in .NET because based on my experience in the marketplace I believe it to be the up and coming code base that will eventually take over the market. MS has a way of doing that.

I really just want to start with something that is relatively simple to start on and you can have immediate results. Fast sucess helps me to stay motivated. That's why I like HTML.

Maybe this isn't possible but I really wouldn't even know where to start. I don't even know what I need to get started. I don't really care what I learn first so long as what I learned can me forward managed into other languages or language styles, much like you were saying with (C#?)

Let me know your feedback,

[sde]

the simplest way to start would be with php. you just need a text editor and either a hosting company like ( www.vilitas.com ) or just install it on your own computer and develop locally with your web server. ( IIS if you are running windows )

if you want to lean toward c#, then you will need to purchase a copy of Visual Studio. I think you can get the standard edition for about $100.

tell me which way you are leaning toward and maybe myself and other members can help you get your feet wet =)

[nyjbarnes]

But I guess I need to know from a dummies point of view, what would I need to do to begin both.

I am relatively ambitious, so don't feel like you would overwhelm me with information...let the fountain flow....

***NEW***
I didn't realize that the message I wrote didn't flow, I am multitasking and not very well it seems.

I believe I may have a copy of viusal studio. I wouldn't know where to begin learning the language though.

I don't know what you mean by installing PHP. I do understand what you mean about developing locally. I have a 2003 server with IIS6.

So, in summary to your statement, I would like to know how to start on PHP so that I have a clear understanding of what is required, then some methods of getting my learn on for beginning the craft. If this doesn't make a lot of sense, just tell me and I will try to rephrase.

[sde]

i think php is a good idea to get started with. things you learn with php will definately carry over to c# later.

http://www.php.net/downloads.php

go there and download/install PHP 5 windows installer.

open up notepad and paste the following code:

PHP Code:

<?
phpinfo();
?>

save this file as: index.php to your web directory.

then try to pull it up in your browser: http://localhost/index.php

if it prompts you to download, then try to restart IIS. if it still trys to download instead of displaying all your php information, .. then post the problem in the PHP forum i'll continue to help you get setup there.

[nyjbarnes]

I will give this a try tonight. Are you central time in the USA?

[sde]

cool, let me know how it goes.

i am on pacific time.

[nyjbarnes]

Installed IIS on my XP pro machine, installed PHP and did what you said, it worked!

Loving it already...man tonight and tomorrow should be fun!