The use of the program CGI and PERL scripting is one method of creating new software. CGI stands for Common Gateway Interface, and PERL stands for Practical Extraction and Reporting Language. PERL is used to for CGI functions. The scripts for PERL applications usually reside on the server. They are not downloadable to a web browser like other types of server applications. CGI is the main pathway from a web server to behind-the-scene processing and database systems. PERL is the language used to communicate via the CGI path.
The Main Function Of CGI And PERL
The main function of CGI programming via the Perl language is to for webmasters to be able to communicate dynamically with others. CGI programming is often used to process website forms that are placed on standard HTML web pages. This CGI programming used could be written in one of a number of different programming languages. In some cases, CGI programs are written in the PERL language. The PERL language is used to create the CGI scripts that are placed on website pages and in e-mails. Some of the most commonly used PERL scripts that are made available are ones for creating e-mail forms, guest books, forums, and more.
Ready-Made PERL Scripts
You can find access to PERL scripts that are already made. A large number of these are offered free of charge out of the goodness of other web programmers’ hearts. Sometimes you need to pay a small fee to use them. The advantages of using ready-made scripts are that you will not need to design your own. You may even be able to take a basic PERL script and adapt it into one that you would create of your own. You will need to make sure you do not violate any licensing agreements when using these ready-made scripts, however.
Note:
You are always advised to be careful in the event that you are requesting downloadable information of any kind. You want to watch out for Internet hackers and malicious spy ware. Only download software from trusted sources.
Custom Made PERL Scripts
You can create your own PERL scripts or you can have them custom made. If you choose to have them custom made, a professional website designer can help you. The advantage of implementing custom-made scripts to your web pages is that you can have the script created a form, image, tool, or button created in the way you want. It can be the size, color, or style of your choosing when you use this type of system.