When not to use scripts

Shell scripts have certain advantages over compiler-based programs, such as C or C++ language. However, Shell scripting has certain limitations as well.

The following are the advantages:

• Scripts are easy to write
• Scripts are quick to start and easy for debugging
• They save the time of development.
• Tasks of administration are automated
• No additional setup or tools are required for developing or testing Shell script

The following are the limitations of Shell scripts:

• Every line in Shell script creates a new process in the operating system. When we execute the compiled program such as C program, it runs as a single process for the complete program.
• Since every command creates a new process, Shell scripts are slow as compared to compiled programs.
• Shell scripts are not suitable if heavy math operations are involved.
• There are Problems with cross-platform portability.
• We cannot use Shell scripts in the following situations when:
  • Extensive file operations are required
  • We need data structures, such as linked lists or trees
  • We need to generate or manipulate graphics or GUIs
  • We need direct access to system hardware
  • We need a port or socket I/O
  • We need to use libraries or interface with legacy code
  • Proprietary, closed source applications are used (Shell scripts put the source code right out in the open for the entire world to see)