Python is ALOT more versitile than VB for afew reasons, and for your purpose (networking) I think a big one would have to be that is full cross platform.

Unlike VB it is also free (www.python.org) and open source, and there are alot of modules to add to its functionality.

However one obstical that may or may not be an issue is that you have to write your own GUI, its not drag or drop like Delphi or VB's.

If you can get over this though it is a very versitile language.

Ill post some cool links Ive found in a little while.

Cheers.