Web Sockets
Quick Reference
| Aspect | HTTP | WebSockets |
|---|---|---|
| Connection | Request-response | Persistent bidirectional |
| Overhead | Headers per request | Initial handshake only |
| Use Case | Traditional web | Real-time communication |
| Latency | Higher (per request) | Lower (persistent) |
Clear Definition
WebSockets provide a persistent, bidirectional communication channel between client and server, enabling real-time data exchange without the overhead of HTTP request-response cycles.
š” Key Insight: WebSockets maintain a persistent connection, allowing low-latency, real-time communication ideal for chat, gaming, live updates.
Core Concepts
How WebSockets Work
- Handshake: HTTP upgrade request to establish connection
- Persistent Connection: Connection stays open
- Bidirectional: Both client and server can send messages
- Low Overhead: No HTTP headers after handshake
Use Cases
- Chat Applications: Real-time messaging
- Live Updates: Stock prices, sports scores
- Collaborative Editing: Google Docs-style collaboration
- Gaming: Real-time game state updates
- Notifications: Push notifications to browser
Best Practices
- Handle Reconnection: Implement reconnection logic
- Heartbeats: Send ping/pong to keep connection alive
- Error Handling: Handle connection failures gracefully
- Scaling: Use message queues for horizontal scaling
Quick Reference Summary
WebSockets: Persistent bidirectional connection for real-time communication.
Use For: Chat, live updates, gaming, collaborative applications.
Key Benefit: Low latency, real-time communication without HTTP overhead.
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