WebSocket
WebSocket is a communication protocol that provides full-duplex, bidirectional communication channels over a single TCP connection, enabling real-time data exchange between a client (typically a web browser) and a server. It allows for persistent connections where both parties can send messages at any time without the overhead of HTTP request-response cycles, making it ideal for applications requiring low-latency updates. This protocol is standardized by the IETF as RFC 6455 and is widely supported in modern web browsers and server environments.
Developers should use WebSocket when building applications that require real-time features, such as live chat, collaborative editing, online gaming, financial tickers, or live sports updates, as it reduces latency and server load compared to polling techniques like HTTP long-polling. It is particularly valuable in scenarios where instant data synchronization between multiple clients and a server is critical, such as in dashboards, notifications, or IoT device monitoring, enabling efficient and scalable real-time communication.