I used to write javascript programs that would run completely on the client-side, using code like document.write to generate the document.

Now it seems that everyone generates code on the server side, and internet explorer blocks most of my old programs from running because they are supposedly unsafe.

So if you want to write software with a little bit of pizzazz are you out of luck unless you can get your hands on a dedicated server?

first, you don't need a dedicated server to write server-side apps.

second, there is still plenty you can do on the client using javascript, dhtml and ajax.

however, you are correct, a lot of functionality has been removed or restricted by the current browsers due to security issues, especially those functions that access anything outside the client window. for example, cross frame scripting is blocked. it sucks, i know.

[edit] sure you can write asp, php and cgi without having ownership of the server. your hosting plan should allow at least one of those options. you can develop server-side applications on Windows XP. just load Internet Information Sever on your workstation and go to town with any number of development environments like Visual Studio or Dream Weaver.