Razor is not a programming language. It's a server side markup language.
What is Razor?
Razor is a markup syntax that lets you embed server-based code (Visual Basic and C#) into web pages.
Server-based code can create dynamic web content on the fly, while a web page is written to the browser. When a web page is called, the server executes the server-based code inside the page before it returns the page to the browser. By running on the server, the code can perform complex tasks, like accessing databases.
Razor is based
on ASP.NET, and designed
for creating web applications. It has the power of traditional ASP.NET markup,
but it is easier to use, and easier to learn.
Razor Syntax
Razor uses a syntax very similar to PHP and Classic ASP.
Razor:
<ul>
@for (int i = 0; i < 10; i++) {
<li>@i</li>
}
</ul>
PHP:
<ul>
<?php
for ($i = 0; $i < 10; $i++) {
echo("<li>$i</li>");
}
?>
</ul>
Web Forms (and Classic ASP):
<ul>
<% for (int i = 0; i < 10; i++) { %>
<li><% =i %></li>
<% } %>
</ul>
Razor Helpers
ASP.NET helpers are components that can be accessed by single lines of Razor code.
You can build your own helpers using Razor syntax, or use built-in ASP.NET helpers.
Below is a short description of some useful Razor helpers:
- Web Grid
- Web Graphics
- Google Analytics
- Facebook Integration
- Twitter Integration
- Sending Email
- Validation
Razor Programming Languages
Razor supports both C# (C sharp) and VB (Visual Basic).