WebSockets (WIP)

WebSockets is a modern web technology that enables a persistent, two-way ("full-duplex") communication channel between a client (like your browser) and a server.

Unlike normal HTTP requests—where the browser always initiates the connection and waits for a reply—a WebSocket connection allows messages to be sent both from the client to the server and from the server back to the client at any time, over the same connection.

• With WebSockets, after an initial handshake using HTTP, the protocol "upgrades" the connection so both client and server can continuously exchange data in real time.

• This all happens over a single TCP connection (the same connection is kept open for as long as needed).

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What’s the benefit compared to XMLHttpRequest?

• When you use traditional web methods like XMLHttpRequest (as in AJAX), every message you want to send opens a new connection (or at least a new request/response cycle). This can add delay and overhead.

• With WebSockets, the same open connection is reused, so data can flow rapidly back and forth without repeatedly reconnecting or waiting for each response before sending the next request.

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Why does this matter?

• This makes WebSockets ideal for real-time applications such as chats, live sports, online games, financial tickers, or collaborative editing, where quick updates from server to client are crucial.

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Summary

• WebSockets:

  • Full-duplex (two-way) communication

  • Uses a single, long-lived TCP connection

  • Faster and more efficient for real-time interactions

• XMLHttpRequest (AJAX):

  • Opens a new request/response cycle each time

  • Less efficient for real-time updates