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Shailender replied | 1 day ago

While it isn't "fast" in the way modern languages like C++ or Rust are (for graphics or complex math), COBOL is exceptionally fast at high-volume data processing.

Why it’s "Fast"

Batch Processing: It is designed to move massive amounts of data (like millions of bank transactions) in and out of storage very efficiently.

Decimal Precision: Unlike most languages, COBOL handles "fixed-point" decimal math natively. This avoids the rounding errors common in other languages, making it faster and more accurate for financial calculations.

Hardware Optimization: It usually runs on mainframes where the hardware is specifically tuned to execute COBOL instructions at the chip level.

Why it’s "Slow"

Heavy Syntax: The code is wordy and "verbose," making it slower for humans to write and maintain.

Not Versatile: It is poor at tasks like image processing, 3D rendering, or real-time web applications.

Shailender replied | 1 day ago

The main difference is when the subprogram is linked to the main program.

Static Call

When: Linked at compile/link-edit time.

Structure: The subprogram is physically "baked into" the main program's executable file.

Pros: Faster execution (already in memory).

Cons: If the subprogram changes, you must re-link the entire application.

Dynamic Call

When: Loaded at runtime (execution time).

Structure: The subprogram remains a separate file and is only called when needed.

Pros: Easier maintenance; you only update the subprogram file, not the main program.

Cons: Slightly slower initial call due to the "search and load" overhead.

Shailender replied | 1 day ago

COBOL software is divided into compilers (to run the code) and IDEs (to write the code).

1. The Compilers (The Engine)

IBM Enterprise COBOL: The standard for IBM mainframes (z/OS).

Rocket Visual COBOL (Micro Focus): The industry leader for running COBOL on Windows, Linux, and Cloud.

GnuCOBOL: The top free, open-source compiler for personal learning and development.

2. The Editors (The Interface)

VS Code: The most popular modern choice (using the COBOL Language Support extension).

Eclipse / Visual Studio: Often bundled with professional tools like Micro Focus for a full-featured experience.

ISPF (The "Green Screen"): The traditional, text-based terminal interface used directly on mainframes.

Monotosh replied | 3 days ago

Cobol language is used in  legacy financial system and  operating on the Mainframe systems .Usually all the banks which have been eixsting for a long time still use Cobol to do financial transaction .Eg Japanese and US and even indian banking systems .The reason we dont hear about it is because of security purpose ,these systems dont talk about it too much

Monotosh replied | 3 days ago

data centres and AI proficiency is usually handled by Python languages with its vast set of AI tools and libraries .However Cobol used in banking systems for financial transaction i sfar away from being replaced because of the cash and money involved and the financial systems integrity can become compromised.Also C# and Java , but primarily Python in data centres