How Python Code Works

Can you explain how Python code works?

Python is an object oriented programming language, kind of like Java.

Java has far more errors. So Python code works by actually working.

That's a starting place, but not a true answer. But both Java and Python use code modules that are interchangeable instead of a single long list of instructions that was standard for functional programming languages.

So how does Python code work?

Python refers to the code module or modules or even the Python project egg referred to in the PythonPath file. It runs each of the code modules in sequence and real time.

Really?

A lot of languages like C++ compile the instruction set to create a program that runs machine code when you click on the executable. Python code is interpreted to machine language as it is run.

That slows it down, as all translations do.

But you can find errors as the code runs, instead of running an executable, trying to figure out which line or variable erred, rewrite the code and recompile.

So Python code is more easily debugged.

And upgraded. You can replace one code module or Python egg program without affecting the others.

Then you re-run it.

Yes, but you can replace a module while other portions are running. And you do not have to recompile or re-run the rest.

Avoiding a run-around is a strong plus.

Python runs variables based on their values and types at run-time. This means you can even edit the Python dictionary table values live.

How does that matter?

Adjust the prices in the Python dictionary while people are generating quotes or looking up information.

And you do not take down the whole server app in the process.

Just jack up the prices -- or add new lines to the dictionary AKA data table for new products as they are uploaded.

No wonder system admins like it. You can update it with less downtime.