text: what are the basic computer languages that the it companies today sought for in a candidate?   it looks like two sets of languages: c#, vb,net (and closely related ms tech). -- or -- java and related tech.  few places need both - most are either java shops or ms shops. c and c++ are dead except for specialized stuff (a shame as c++ is mature, very stable and easy to program in).  for straight web developement, that's a different game.  suggest asp.net or php plus html/css/javascript (the usual stuff).  if your use the keyword 'developer' in a monster.com or workopolis (career search sites) search, you can get a good idea of what's hot.