Intro

WebSockets are a protocol that enables full duplex, bidirectional communication between a client and a server over a single TCP connection. This technology is crucial for applications requiring real-time updates and interactive features.

Use Cases

• Real-time chat applications
• Live sports scores and updates
• Collaborative editing tools
• Financial trading platforms (Binance)
• Online gaming
• …etc

Key Concepts

1. Full-duplex Communication: Unlike HTTP, WebSockets allow simultaneous two-way communication.
2. Persistent Connection: Once established, the connection remains open, reducing latency for subsequent messages.
3. Lightweight: WebSocket messages have minimal overhead compared to HTTP requests.
4. Cross-origin Communication: WebSockets can connect to different domains, following security policies.

Lifecycle

1. Handshake: The client initiated it using an HTTP upgrade request.
2. Connection Established: The server accepts, and the protocol switches to WebSocket.
3. Data Transfer: Bidirectional message exchange.
4. Connection Closure: Either party can initiate closure.

Detailed breakdown