What are the best scripting languages?

Conflicting Messages from Web Designers

[AngieT]

I realise everyone will have their own favourite language, but are there any that are deemed out of date or very restrictive?
One design company said they use ColdFusion as its very quick, but I'm worried about hosting issues as my current host no longer supports it - is this a general trend?
Another designer swears by ASP. As the existing site is written in PHP I am unsure which way to go. I'm not even sure how important the scripting language is.
Anybody have any opinions on this?

[txbakers]

All are good if they get the job done.

I like ASP because I started with ASP and have a Windows server.

I've worked with PHP and if I didn't have a W server I'd probably use that.

CF seems to be less supported since it requires a costly proprietary layer.

ASP is free with W Servers and PHP is free for everyone.

There is no "best"

[mack]

I have to agree that there is no "best" scripting language. It all comes down to personal choie, and what can work on your environment.

If you spend time getting to know a scripting language and learn it's tips and tricks you will do well.

Mack.

[wizzud]

I also agree that there is no "best", however I would posit the argument that PHP might be more "appropriate" in this case. The reasons being that for an apparent novice at scripting the advantage of having an existing site to start with makes gaining an understanding of what is happening a lot easier. Also, I believe the help and resources available online for PHP are far more readable and accessible than those for ASP.

[surfin2u]

Best scripting language to me means that I can:

1) Implement functionality with a minimum of effort.

2) The language is considered a standard and is supported by a majority of hosting companies.

Given that definition, PHP is clearly an excellent first choice. ASP would be a good second choice, missing top spot because it is not as widely supported.