Given the similarities between Mozilla's approach (XUL, JavaScript, Mozilla) and Microsoft's approach (XAML, .NET, Windows/IE) to developing modern applications, which do you think has a better chance of becoming the dominant platform? Either of these, or is there a dark horse running? Do you think this XML-front-ended development scheme is truly advancing the development state-of-the-art, or is it simply adding complexity to a task that is already far too complex? Join us in the DevX forums to discuss this topic.
Windows Longhorn is a demonstrably powerful and ambitious concept, but the architectural principles are hardly new. From 10,000 feet, Mozilla's architecture looks remarkably similar.
by Nigel McFarlane
November 25, 2003
oftware technology goes forward in fits and starts. Bigger advances can cause plenty of information indigestion for technologists. At each leap, a new understanding gap opens up. Such a gap takes learning effort to close. Windows Longhorn is a big advancement for Microsoft, and the understanding gap created is proportionally large. Take heart, there's little that's truly new under the sun. A look at Mozilla technology shows that this road is already laid out. Don't believe me? Read on.
Mozilla: An Application Platform?
Mozilla is the technology behind the Netscape Navigator 6.x and 7.x Web browser. Although Microsoft beat Netscape to a pulp in the "browser wars," the Mozilla technology underneath didn't quite die. Instead, it mutated into an application platform. Mozilla applications such as the Mozilla browser are built on top of this new Mozilla Platform. The browser application is not important for this discussion, but what lies underneath it is.
It's quick, easy and you get access to all the articles on DevX.
This registration/login is to allow you to read articles on devx.com. Already a member?
To become a member of DevX.com create your Member Profile by completing the form below. Membership is free!
oftware technology goes forward in fits and starts. Bigger advances can cause plenty of information indigestion for technologists. At each leap, a new understanding gap opens up. Such a gap takes learning effort to close. Windows Longhorn is a big advancement for Microsoft, and the understanding gap created is proportionally large. Take heart, there's little that's truly new under the sun. A look at Mozilla technology shows that this road is already laid out. Don't believe me? Read on.
