Learning PHP, ASP.net and SQL

MikeHunt79 · 11 Aug 2009 at 23:56

First of all, if ASP.net similar to PHP? Is it just the microsoft equivalent? I've not heard of it until recently...

I've seen a few web dev jobs lately and many are asking for ASP.net skills.

Now, I'm ok in PHP, so would I be able to pick up ASP if it's similar?

Also, is there a good exercise or type of website to code in order to see if my skills are up to scratch? Most of my experience comes from modifying existing code such as OScommerce... I was thinking of building an example site so I'd have something to stick on my CV to show employers... I already have hosting, I just need some ideas.

tsinc80697 · 12 Aug 2009 at 00:13

Used PHP for about 3-4 years. Dabbled in ASP.net and I am never going anywhere near it again

bleugh visual studio

MikeHunt79 · 12 Aug 2009 at 00:28

oh noes, do you need visual studio to use ASP.net??

I've become quite attached to Notepad++

daz · 12 Aug 2009 at 00:37

.Net is more similar to Java than PHP really.

But if you're used to OO in PHP, then you'll be OK. If you're not doing OO then it might take some getting to grips with.

MikeHunt79 · 12 Aug 2009 at 01:19

Cheers, I think I'm gonna have to bite the bullet and give it a try. Is there a 30 day trail of Visual Studio and will it run on a virtual machine OK? AT least then I know what I'm letting myself in for. I've done Java in the past, and wasn't very keen on it...

One job I've seen is asking for skills in PHP, ASP.net, SQL as well as graphic design skills in flash or photoshop, so I'm not really sure how much depth will be needed...

GarethDW · 12 Aug 2009 at 02:49

MikeHunt79 said:
Is there a 30 day trail of Visual Studio and will it run on a virtual machine OK? AT least then I know what I'm letting myself in for.

You can download the Express version for free.

MikeHunt79 · 12 Aug 2009 at 11:52

GarethDW said:
You can download the Express version for free.

Cheers, downloading now.

GravyMonster · 13 Aug 2009 at 12:38

Why all the hate for VS? It's my favourite IDE - even for classic ASP.

RobH · 13 Aug 2009 at 12:48

Spunkey said:
Why all the hate for VS?

I think it has something to do with the legacy of Visual Basic and the 'drag and drop' designed programs with poor code behind them.

GravyMonster · 13 Aug 2009 at 12:49

Ah, fair enough, but any tool is only as good as it's user.

Izi · 13 Aug 2009 at 23:08

VS2008 i couldnt live without. the debugging and intellisence is absolutly invaluable.

which real coder uses drag and drop anyway?

also you can download SQL server 2008 express. the limitations are 1gb db size and 1gb ram i think so its good for small medium sized projects.

with VS express and SQL express i really dont see a reason to learn PHP over asp.net and sql, especially if its a career path choice. .net developers get paid more generally .