I am suprised that Java is not an option. C++ is definitely very popular, although lately some developers have been using Java instead. C++ still has its niche eg: developing for handhelds, system level programming, writing ISAPI/NSAPI filters, Activex controls and so on. VB is for user interface development, although you can develop back-end components in it if you really wanted to (they tend to be a little slower than C++).

As far as VB is concerned, it depends on whether it is VB 6.0 or VB.NET. .NET is very similar to Java and is much easier to learn than C++. You will be tied to M$ platforms and be careful that you don't get seduced by their slick marketing brainwashing while using their products. VB 6.0 is not bad. It lacks certain OO features ie. it only has inheritance of interface and no implementation inheritance. (Java does both of the above, C++ only has the later).

One other point to note is a non-technical one. There will always be a whole lot more VB "developers" around. Especially, ppl who just did a 2 week course from some shady tech. training institute. Learning C++ takes much more effort, so you will have a little less competition when applying for C++ jobs.(Same institutes as above also offer "Unix with C++" courses but it is much easier to spot people who "graduate" in that.

Just for fun see Favourite Languages on Slashdot. However, don't take the poll results too seriously.

Just a tongue-tied, twisted, earth-bound misfit. -- Pink Floyd

In reply to Re: Which language would be most helpful? by data64
in thread Which language would be most helpful? by mrpilot

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