Socket Programming
Socket programming is a method for enabling communication between two nodes on a network using sockets, which are endpoints for sending and receiving data. It involves creating network applications that can establish connections, transmit data, and handle protocols like TCP or UDP. This concept is fundamental for building client-server architectures, real-time systems, and distributed applications.
Developers should learn socket programming when building networked applications that require direct control over communication, such as web servers, chat applications, multiplayer games, or IoT devices. It is essential for scenarios where low-level network interaction, custom protocols, or real-time data exchange are needed, providing flexibility beyond higher-level abstractions like HTTP APIs.