What Is a Framework in Programming Language
Coding can be a lot of work, even for those who spent four years getting a computer science degree. Whether you’re tasked with a small-scale software patch or creating an application from the ground up, no doubt you’ll find there are numerous tasks, debugging frustrations, and trial-and-error work that goes into the project.
Programming itself is a testament to the old adage, “Work smarter, not harder,” and a prime example is how developers use frameworks to reduce development time. Frameworks are the starting set of tools used by many successful coding teams.
These development platforms feature libraries of bundled code, software modeling, APIs, and other elements that make the scripting and programming processes much faster and more efficient.
Let’s take a look at the types of software frameworks, some popular framework examples, and how these can turn a tough programming job into a more productive and enjoyable experience.
You can become a software developer by taking one of our coding bootcamps. Schedule a meeting with an admissions advisor at Eleven Fifty Academy to get started.
What Is the Purpose of a Framework?
Framework platforms are extremely dynamic, reusable, and feature helpful tools that allow developers to work more efficiently. Think of them as a template for computer programming. Each framework is based around a specific coding language, such as Java, Python, C+, CSS, or PHP, and creates a blueprint for developing in that style.
Frameworks can be used for both front-end and back-end development, in standalone applications, and in web development. While each type of software framework platform has its own unique features, they also share some common benefits.
1. They make coding easier and efficient
Coding can be very repetitive. Using frameworks can reduce repetition, thanks to libraries of bundled code that define parameters of the given programming language.
In addition to saving time, using the framework can also reduce the risk of code errors and make code blocks shorter. Shorter, more accurate code means that developers can spend less time maintaining and testing it on the back end.
2. Data is more secure against cyberattacks
When developing outside of a framework environment, programmers are responsible for protecting data from cyber attacks. Frameworks offer cybersecurity to the project, taking the burden off of the programmer.
Having a framework that can demonstrate security helps developers prove that they can work with larger clients with more stringent data security requirements.
3. Open-source code creates community and conversation
Most software frameworks are open \-source frameworks, meaning they’re both free to use and have non-restrictive licensing to allow developers to create at the commercial level.
The open-source factor also makes it possible for developers to create online communities.
In these communities, users can work together, post code examples, assist others in troubleshooting, and in general, help the program to continuously improve.
4. They integrate and connect across databases
Frameworks use APIs to easily connect with any number of web apps, databases, and third-party tools. This means they can be used to increase efficiency in any programming setup.
5. They allow programmers to do what they do best
Programmers are exceptionally good at creative problem-solving, as well as thinking about technology from a big-picture point of view. However, getting weighed down in the minutia of coding takes time away from solving the real problem at hand.
Thanks to frameworks, developers don’t have to fret over semicolon placement or building their own APIs. Frameworks allow programmers to visualize and orchestrate more advanced tactics.
What Is the Difference Between a Framework and a Library?
Sometimes the terms “framework” and “library” are used interchangeably. Why would any developer choose to work with one or another? While both have bundled, prepackaged code, a programmer has good reason to choose one over the other depending on the type of project they’re developing.
When using a code library, the programmer is “calling” the code, meaning they have full control and responsibility over where code goes and how it all works together.
In a framework environment, the programmer is told where to plug in code by the framework application itself. This is a concept known as inversion of control, and it helps to reduce bugs, make testing easier, reduce server usage, and provide an overall more dynamic programming experience.
One way to look at it is by exploring this car-buying analogy: When a developer is using a code library, it’s a lot like purchasing a mechanic’s manual, toolkit, and set of auto parts in order to build a car. While you might have the necessary instructions and components, the final product is 100% your responsibility.
Using frameworks is more like buying a car from a dealer, where you can select a model and then decide on things like color, accessories, and safety features. While the terms library and framework are used interchangeably, choosing to work with a framework simply requires much less labor and reduces risks of breakdowns.
What Are the Different Types of Frameworks?
Programmers can choose from a number of software frameworks to suit the functionality needed for a wide range of projects. Frameworks are typically built from popular programming languages. For example, Ruby on Rails is built on the Ruby programming language, whereas Django and Flask are built on Python.
Some of the most common and popular frameworks used today include the following.
Web Application Development Frameworks
- JavaScript frameworks (JS frameworks) make it easier to build applications for both iOS and Microsoft.
- PHP-based web application frameworks offer open-source patterns that are feature-packed, but still easy to understand.
- Popular frameworks include AngularJS, Ruby on Rails, and Laravel.
DataScience Frameworks
- Java, Scala, Python, R, and SQL frameworks simplify large-scale data processing from researching and prototyping, through to production deployment.
- Linear models for data analysis can predict behavior, language modeling, and image recognition and processing. Natural language processing (NLP) and machine learning (ML) are flexible and pre-designed to speed builds and increase a programmer’s ability to deploy ML-powered applications.
- Popular frameworks include Apache Spark, PyTorch, and TensorFlow.
Mobile Application Development Frameworks
- Free, open-source mobile user interface toolkits make it possible for developers to ensure consistency across cross-platform applications for Android, iOS, and all web interfaces.
- These frameworks can also be used to simplify development of applications for mobile, web, and desktop from a single codebase.
- .NET and C# improve building for Android and iOS applications.
- Popular frameworks include Ionic, Xamarin, and Flutter.
Begin Your Programming Journey With Eleven Fifty Academy
Understanding how frameworks operate comes with coding experience. In fact, many experienced developers and employers would emphasize how important it is to understand code that powers any framework.
The instructors at Eleven Fifty Academy will help you develop the know-how and first-hand experience you need to level-up your knowledge of software development and learn how to solve complex coding challenges.
Our goal is to make it easier to learn new coding skills. A beginner student can take a full-time 12-week coding bootcamp to learn the basics of writing code. Whether you’re looking to up your existing coding knowledge or start from scratch, our admissions advisors can help you find the coding bootcamp that’s right for you
