Which programming type executes code on the user's machine rather than a server?

Client-side programming refers to the execution of code directly on the user's machine, typically within a web browser. This approach allows for interactive and dynamic user experiences without the need for constant communication with a server. By processing scripts and applications on the user’s device, client-side programming can enhance performance and reduce load times, as only necessary data is exchanged with the server.

Technologies often associated with client-side programming include HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. By running these scripts on the client side, web applications can respond to user inputs quickly and create smooth, responsive interfaces.

In contrast, server-side programming handles application logic, database queries, and data processing on the server. System programming focuses on developing software that provides services to the hardware, such as operating systems, while embedded programming is related to creating software for specific hardware devices that often require real-time computing capabilities. Thus, the distinguishing factor that makes client-side programming the correct choice is its role in executing code on the user's local environment.