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What are Coding Platforms and Which One is Best for Coding Beginners?

In the world of programming, a “coding platform” is a relatively loose term. It can denote a particular operating system (OS), the hardware on which you can code, or even a specialized environment that has been specifically customized to facilitate the development process.
Needless to say, this can be confusing. Especially if you’re a beginner who has only recently enlisted at a San Diego, CA code school and is still learning crucial web development skills. The good news is, things are nowhere near as complicated as they might seem.
We have written a brief guide on choosing the right coding platform if you’re a beginner to help you out. Read on to learn more.
Table of Contents:
Which coding platform is best for beginners?
There’s no such thing as the “best” coding platform. Every OS has its own advantages and disadvantages that can vary widely depending on the specific project you’re working on. Likewise, some coding types require specialized hardware, while others can be done on a basic laptop.
How to choose your coding platform if you’re a beginner?
1. Hardware
To be able to become a programmer, you’re going to need a computer with internet access. While basic coding types do not require a powerful machine to run, you should still get a laptop that can smoothly run one of the 3 primary operating systems. This includes macOS, Linux, and Windows.
2. Operating system
Among coding professionals, Linux is by far the most important and widely used OS. In addition to having a Unix-like backbone (which enables you to test programs in almost any language), Linux is free, endlessly customizable, and equipped with a variety of developer-friendly tools.
That’s not to say that Windows 10 and macOS don’t have their place in the field of programming. Due to having extensive support and being the two most popular operating systems among end-users worldwide, they are the systems of choice for many professional coders.
3. Software
This constitutes any programming software that you’re going to use to actually learn and practice your coding. The good news is, most of these programs (for example, the Ruby on Rails framework) are freely available online.
As you get deeper into coding, you will start developing your own personalized workflow and either discovering or creating other useful tools in your day-to-day coding.
4. Virtual machines
A virtual machine (VM) is a type of program that enables you to install a fully working OS within the VM software’s confines itself. For instance, you could create a virtual Linux machine that functions like a separate computer inside your Windows 10 machine.
This allows you to access a different OS’s full functionality without having to use it as your primary operating system or set up a double boot. You could test your code in this virtual OS without risk of breaking your host OS, and easily be able to roll back to an earlier configuration without the need to reinstall the other OS.
Where can I find a first-rate San Diego, CA, code school?
One of the most significant advantages web development has over other professions is that you can learn enough to pass a coding job interview and become a working programmer in only 4 months with proper teachers and a good curriculum.
Here at LEARN academy, we provide our students with top-of-the-line coding bootcamp that includes extensive full-stack training and a 1-month internship at a reputable San Diego tech company.
Are you unable to attend the lessons in person? No problem. Our bootcamps are available remotely, so you can get your training from the safety and comfort of your Kensington home if you so prefer. Reach out to us today.