What coding language does Google use?

Google uses a variety of programming languages depending on the task, team, and project. Here's an overview of the most commonly used languages at Google:

1. C++

C++ is one of the most widely used languages at Google, especially for systems that require high performance and efficiency. Many of Google’s core systems, such as search engine infrastructure and indexing, are built in C++.

• Used For: High-performance systems, search infrastructure, networking, and optimization tasks.

2. Python

Python is used across Google for a wide range of tasks, from automation to machine learning. Its simplicity and rich ecosystem of libraries make it popular for quick development and prototyping.

• Used For: Automation, data analysis, machine learning, scripting, and web development.
• Notable Use: Google's AI and machine learning frameworks, such as TensorFlow, are primarily written in Python.

3. Java

Java is another major language at Google, particularly in backend development and for building scalable, enterprise-level applications. It's also the language used for Android development within Google, alongside Kotlin.

• Used For: Backend services, Android development, large-scale distributed systems.

4. Go (Golang)

Go, which was created at Google, is increasingly used for building cloud-native applications and microservices. It's valued for its simplicity, performance, and concurrency features, making it ideal for highly scalable systems.

• Used For: Microservices, cloud infrastructure, distributed systems, and scalable applications.

5. JavaScript/TypeScript

JavaScript and TypeScript are used for frontend development at Google, especially for building web-based applications and internal tools. Angular, a popular web development framework created by Google, is built with TypeScript.

• Used For: Web development, front-end services, and client-side applications.

6. Kotlin

Kotlin is widely used alongside Java for Android development at Google. Kotlin has become one of the official languages for Android app development, providing a modern and more concise syntax than Java.

• Used For: Android app development.

Summary of Google's Main Programming Languages:

1. C++: Used for high-performance systems and core infrastructure.
2. Python: Popular for machine learning, data analysis, and automation.
3. Java: Common in backend development and Android app development.
4. Go (Golang): Increasingly used for cloud services and microservices.
5. JavaScript/TypeScript: Used for frontend and web development.
6. Kotlin: Primarily used for Android app development.

How to Prepare for a Job at Google:

To succeed in technical interviews at Google, mastering data structures and algorithms is critical. Consider using resources like Grokking Data Structures & Algorithms for Coding Interviews to sharpen your skills in these areas. If you’re targeting system design roles, Grokking the System Design Interview can help you understand scalable architectures, which are often tested in Google's interviews.

Focusing on languages like C++, Python, Java, and Go will prepare you for most roles at Google, especially in backend services, cloud infrastructure, and machine learning.