What programming languages are commonly used for federated learning?

Federated learning (FL) is a decentralized approach to machine learning where models are trained across multiple devices or servers without sharing raw data. The programming languages used for FL typically prioritize integration with machine learning frameworks, scalability, and support for distributed systems. Python is the most common choice due to its extensive ML ecosystem, but languages like Java, C++, and JavaScript also play roles in specific scenarios. Let’s explore the key languages and their use cases.

Python is the dominant language for federated learning because of its compatibility with popular machine learning libraries like TensorFlow and PyTorch. TensorFlow Federated (TFF), a dedicated FL framework, is built on Python and integrates seamlessly with TensorFlow for defining and simulating federated workflows. PyTorch users often leverage libraries like PySyft or Flower to implement FL. Python’s simplicity and the availability of tools for data preprocessing, model evaluation, and visualization make it ideal for prototyping and research. For example, developers can use TFF to simulate federated scenarios with minimal setup, test aggregation algorithms, or deploy models to edge devices using TensorFlow Lite.

Java and C++ are often used in production systems where performance and scalability are critical. Java’s strong support for distributed computing (e.g., Apache Flink) and its use in Android environments make it suitable for FL on mobile devices. C++ is preferred for resource-constrained edge devices or high-performance servers, as seen in frameworks like FATE (Federated AI Technology Enabler), which uses C++ for core components. These languages are also common in enterprise settings where existing infrastructure relies on Java-based microservices or C+±optimized libraries. For instance, a healthcare system using FL might deploy Java-based servers to handle data from hospitals while using C++ for on-device inference.

JavaScript is emerging as a viable option for browser-based FL, particularly with TensorFlow.js, which enables training models directly in web browsers. This approach is useful for privacy-focused applications where data remains on the user’s device, such as personalized keyboard suggestions. Rust is also gaining traction for its memory safety and performance, especially in systems requiring strict security guarantees. While less common, these languages highlight the diversity of FL use cases. For example, a JavaScript-based FL implementation could allow users to contribute to a global model without installing additional software, while Rust might secure sensitive operations in federated systems.