What is WebSocket? Simple Explanation
What is WebSocket? Normally, web communication works via HTTP. A client sends a request, the server responds, and the connection ends. But what if you need real-time updates — like in chat apps, online games, or stock tickers? Opening a new HTTP request for every update would be too slow and heavy. That’s where WebSocket comes in. Key Idea WebSocket creates a persistent, two-way connection between client and server. Instead of “ask and reply”, both sides can send messages anytime. It starts as an HTTP request, then “upgrades” the connection to WebSocket. Why WebSocket? Real-time communication (chats, notifications, multiplayer games). Efficiency — no need to reopen connections all the time. Bi-directional — both client and server can send data. Example in JavaScript // Client-side WebSocket const socket = new WebSocket("ws://localhost:8080"); // When connection opens socket.onopen = () => { console.log("Connected to server"); socket.send("Hello Server!"); }; // When message is received socket.onmessage = (event) => { console.log("Message from server:", event.data); }; On the server side (Node.js example with ws): ...