Java or php

which is better for server side programming

Either. Neither. How can anyone say without knowing anything about you or your project?

I googled java vs php and found a bunch of stuff, this was at the top of the list.

http://www.tonybibbs.com/article.php/20030212152811436

One big difference is that php requires no client side software, whereas it is my understanding that server side java still requires a JVM on the client.

But better? like the man says, it all depends on what you are doing.

Fred Hamilton wrote:whereas it is my understanding that server side java still requires a JVM on the client.

Your understanding is not correct.

Bear Bibeault wrote:

Fred Hamilton wrote:whereas it is my understanding that server side java still requires a JVM on the client.

Your understanding is not correct.

duly noted and withdrawn. subsequent preliminary research suggests a complete misinterpretation of the concept on my part.

The easiest way to think about it is... both Java (Servlets and JSPs) and PHP generates content that runs in a browser. So, their client side requirements are the same.

Henry

As for which one is better, I'd say ASP
Now seriously, it's all a matter of opinion.

If PHP can do what you need, your web server supports it and you like PHP, you use PHP.
If JSP / servlets can do what you need, your web server supports it and you like Java, you use JSP.
If ASP can do what you need, your web server supports it and you like ASP, you use PHP or Java. Because ASP is garbage