best network programming language
 

In your opinion, what do you think the best language for network programming is? (by best I don't mean easier to use, I mean fast and efficient) The java zealots out there seem to only be able to bring up java's simplicity as its advantage over C++. People often complain about C++'s difficulty level, however I dont really mind since more complexity usually induces more control. But I'd appreciate your opinions, thanks.
(oh, btw when I say "network programming" I'm refering to protocols; and switch api's; kinda the lower level plumbing stuff basically..)

I would have to go with c++ because of the same reason as you; more complexity/control.

I don't really think that it has much to do with the language as it is just the library you are using with a certain language.

What about how the library is used/implemented? or the efficiency of the library itself since its created by that language?

Cobol .net ;)

J/k, didn't mean to make anyone have a stroke.

I vote c++ as well for the reasons stated above

Expect a subpoena to arrive in the mail; I'm suing you for medical bills as well as my pain and suffering. :P

I vote Perl.

why so nnixon?

Perl is awesome for networking... quick and dirty. I think C++ would be the way to go for large applications though.

Im using python for developing scripts and switch apis now; I like it because its like an object oriented perl but it doesn't force you to be oo like java does. But im looking to concentrate on a bigger language; do you think that javas popularity would suggest that C++ is dying out?