Microsoft has shifted its scripting options for web development and task automation.
The company is replacing VBScript with more advanced alternatives such as JavaScript and PowerShell to provide users with the most modern and efficient tools.
This article explores what VBScript deprecation means for users and how they can prepare for the transition.
Visual Basic Scripting Edition, commonly known as VBScript, is a lightweight scripting language introduced by Microsoft in 1996.
It has been widely used for automating tasks and controlling applications on Windows-based systems.
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VBScript is often embedded within HTML pages to add dynamic interactivity and functionality and is commonly used with Microsoft technologies like Active Server Pages (ASP) and Windows Script Host (WSH).
Why is VBScript Deprecated?
Over the years, technology has evolved, developing more powerful and versatile scripting languages such as JavaScript and PowerShell.
These languages offer broader capabilities and are better suited for modern web development and automation tasks.
Deprecation is a stage in the product lifecycle when a feature or functionality is no longer in active development and may be removed in future releases.
It’s a gradual process that can span months or years.
The deprecated feature will typically continue to work and be fully supported until it is officially removed.
Removing a deprecated component helps reduce complexity while keeping users secure and productive.
VBScript Deprecation Plan
Given the decline in VBScript usage in favor of more modern web technologies, Microsoft has developed a phased deprecation plan for VBScript.
Here is the timeline of these changes:
Phase 1
In the first phase, VBScript Features on Demand (FODs) will be pre-installed by default in all Windows 11, version 24H2, and later.
This ensures that experiences are not disrupted if there is a dependency on VBScript while migrating dependencies away from it.
Users can see the VBScript FODs enabled by default at Start > Settings > System > Optional features.
Phase 2
Around 2027, the VBScript FODs will no longer be enabled by default.
Users still relying on VBScript must enable the FODs to prevent application and process problems.
Steps to Enable VBScript FODs:
- Go to Start > Settings > System > Optional features.
- Select “View features” next to the “Add an Optional feature” option at the top.
- Type “VBSCRIPT” in the search dialog and select the checkbox next to the result.
- Press “Next” to enable the disabled feature.
Phase 3
VBScript will be retired and eliminated from future versions of Windows.
VBScript’s dynamic link libraries (.dll files) will be removed, causing projects that rely on it to stop functioning.
By then, users are expected to have switched to suggested alternatives.
VBA Projects That Use VBScript
Visual Basic for Applications (VBA) allows users to automate repetitive tasks and customize functionalities within the Microsoft Office suite.
Currently, VBScript can be used in VBA for two scenarios:
- Calling a .vbs script directly from VBA.
- VBScript is a typelib reference (such as VBScript regular expression) in VBA.
Users can continue using existing solutions if their VBA projects involve these scenarios, as Phase 1 won’t affect them.
However, future phases will, so staying updated on new developments is essential.
Microsoft recommends migrating to PowerShell if:
- Your websites or applications depend on VBScript to automate tasks.
- You use VBScript custom actions as a feature in installer packages.
In these cases, migrating to PowerShell is advisable.
For web pages, Microsoft recommends migrating to JavaScript before Phase 2.
JavaScript offers cross-browser compatibility, working seamlessly across modern browsers such as Microsoft Edge, Mozilla Firefox, Google Chrome, and Apple Safari.
Notably, these browsers have never implemented support for VBScript.
If your webpage functions properly across these modern browsers, VBScript isn’t involved, and its deprecation won’t affect you.
The deprecation of VBScript marks a significant shift towards more modern and efficient scripting options.
By transitioning to JavaScript and PowerShell, users can ensure their applications and web pages remain functional and secure in the evolving technological landscape.
Stay informed and proactive to make the transition as smooth as possible.
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