Microsoft has announced that it will begin deprecating the VBScript languagein the second half of 2024, and will provide it as an on-demand feature until it is completely removed.
On-demand features are optional Windowsthat are not installed by default. However, users can add them if they want.
“Technology has advanced over the years, creating more powerful and flexible scripting languages like JavaScript and PowerShell. These languages offer broader capabilities and are better suited for modern tasks development and automation,” said Microsoft program manager Naveen Shankar. He added that the feature will gradually be completely retired from future versions of the Windows operating system.
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The phase-out plan consists of three phases. The first phase will begin in the second half of 2024, with VBScript being offered by default as an optional feature in Windows 11 24H2.
During the second phase, around 2027, VBScript will still be available as an on-demand feature, but will no longer be pre-installed.
In the third phase, Microsoft will completely retire VBScript and it will no longer be available in future versions of Windows. As a result, all VBScript dynamic link libraries (.dll files) will be removed and projects that use VBScript will stop working.
The company revealed its plans to phase out VBScript in October of last year. It's worth noting that this feature has been available in Windows for 30 years.
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This programming language comes with Internet Explorer (disabled in some versions of Windows 10 in February 2023) and helps automate tasks and control applications using Windows Script.
Microsoft disabled VBScript by default in Internet Explorer 11 on Windows 10 in July 2019.
The removal is part of a broader strategy to remove Windows and Office components that hackers use to infect users with malware. Attackers have repeatedly used VBScript to distribute malware, including Lokibot, Emotet, Qbot, and DarkGate.
For those still using VBScript, it is important to consider migrating to alternative scripting languages. While this may seem like a tedious task, it presents an opportunity for organizations to modernize their applications and take advantage of the latest technologies.
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Additionally, Microsoft's removal of VBScript serves as a reminder to continually evaluate and update your technology stack. As new languages and tools emerge, it is essential to adapt and evolve in order to remain competitive in the ever-changing technology landscape.
As we say goodbye to VBScript, let's embrace the future and continue to push the boundaries of what's possible with modern languages. This move by Microsoft is a step towards a more secure, efficient, and dynamic web development ecosystem that benefits both developers and users.
Source: www.bleepingcomputer.com
