The programming language widely used for server-side scripting on the web is PHP. Known for its flexibility and ease of integration, PHP allows developers to create dynamic web pages and manage database interactions efficiently. It powers numerous content management systems (CMS) like WordPress and Drupal, making it a popular choice among web developers. Additionally, PHP's extensive libraries and frameworks support rapid application development and deployment. Its ability to generate HTML content on the server side enhances user experience by delivering tailored responses based on user requests.