WebSocket Server
A WebSocket server is a software component that implements the WebSocket protocol to enable persistent, full-duplex communication channels over a single TCP connection between clients (e.g., web browsers) and servers. It allows real-time, bidirectional data exchange, eliminating the need for repeated HTTP polling and reducing latency. This is essential for applications requiring instant updates, such as live chats, online gaming, or financial trading platforms.
Developers should use a WebSocket server when building applications that demand low-latency, real-time communication, such as collaborative tools, live notifications, or interactive dashboards. It's particularly valuable in scenarios where traditional HTTP request-response cycles are inefficient, such as streaming data or maintaining persistent connections for multiplayer games or IoT device monitoring.