Perl is a versatile programming language that has been developed over three decades, making it a robust choice for developers. It is designed to run on over 100 platforms, supporting both rapid prototyping and large-scale projects. Perl excels in text processing, making it particularly useful for tasks involving HTML, XML, and other markup languages. Additionally, it is capable of handling encrypted web data, which is essential for e-commerce applications. The language family also includes Raku, which is a separate entity with its own development team, ensuring that Perl continues to evolve independently.

Targeting a wide range of users from small businesses to large enterprises, Perl is suitable for various organizational types including nonprofits and government entities. It integrates seamlessly with numerous applications and services, providing developers with a flexible environment for their projects. Training resources are available through comprehensive documentation, and support can be accessed online. With a pricing structure starting at free, Perl offers a cost-effective solution for programming needs.