WebSocket is a communication protocol that provides full-duplex communication channels over a single TCP connection. It enables real-time, bidirectional communication between web browsers and servers, making it ideal for applications that need instant updates.
What is WebSocket?
WebSocket is a communication protocol that provides full-duplex communication channels over a single TCP connection. It enables real-time, bidirectional communication between web browsers and servers, making it ideal for applications that need instant updates.
What WebSocket Does
WebSocket allows for persistent, two-way communication between clients and servers. Unlike traditional HTTP requests, WebSocket connections stay open, enabling real-time data exchange without the overhead of repeated HTTP requests.
How WebSocket Works
WebSocket communication follows this pattern:
1. Handshake: Client and server establish connection via HTTP
2. Upgrade: Connection is upgraded to WebSocket protocol
3. Persistent Connection: Bidirectional communication channel
4. Data Exchange: Real-time message passing
5. Closure: Connection is closed when no longer needed
Common Uses
WebSocket is used in many real-time applications:
Why It Matters
WebSocket is valuable because it:
Key Features
WebSocket has become essential for modern web applications that require real-time communication and instant updates.