What is websocket and how does it work?

What is WebSocket and How Does it Work?

Let me explain WebSocket, a technology that has transformed the way real-time communication works on the web. It allows a persistent, full-duplex communication channel between a client (usually a web browser) and a server. This enables data to flow continuously between them, making WebSocket ideal for real-time applications like live chat, online gaming, and financial platforms. Let’s break it down further so you can get a complete understanding of how WebSocket works and why it’s so useful.

WebSocket is a protocol that provides full-duplex communication channels over a single, long-lived connection. Unlike traditional HTTP communication, which is request-response based, WebSocket allows for bidirectional communication. This means that both the client and the server can send and receive messages at any time without having to establish a new connection each time.

To understand how WebSocket works, consider the following analogy: Think of traditional HTTP as sending a letter. When you send a letter, you wait for a response before sending another. In contrast, WebSocket is like picking up the phone and starting an ongoing conversation, where both parties can speak freely without waiting for the other to send a response first. This continuous exchange of messages without the need for constant re-connection is what makes WebSocket so efficient.

Now, let’s explore the steps involved in establishing a WebSocket connection:

1. Initiation: The WebSocket communication begins with an HTTP request from the client to the server. This request includes an Upgrade header, indicating that the client wants to switch to the WebSocket protocol.
2. Handshaking: If the server supports WebSocket, it responds with a 101 Switching Protocols status, confirming that the connection will be upgraded to WebSocket.
3. Data Exchange: Once the connection is established, both the client and server can send messages to each other in real-time. These messages can be in the form of text or binary data.
4. Closing: Either the client or server can close the WebSocket connection by sending a closing frame, signaling the end of the communication.

Because WebSocket allows both parties to communicate in real-time without the overhead of repeatedly opening and closing connections, it is incredibly efficient for applications that require frequent updates, like messaging apps or live feeds. It is especially useful for scenarios where low latency is essential, such as in stock market applications where prices update every second, or online games that need to update player movements in real-time.

One of the main advantages of WebSocket over traditional HTTP is its efficiency. In HTTP, every request and response requires the opening and closing of a new connection, which can be costly in terms of time and resources, especially for frequent communications. WebSocket, on the other hand, establishes a connection once and keeps it open, allowing continuous communication without the need for repetitive handshakes.

As we discussed in earlier articles about protocols and their importance in communication, WebSocket is a perfect example of how technology can adapt to meet the needs of modern applications. Whether it’s for live data streaming, online games, or chat applications, WebSocket ensures smooth and fast communication between clients and servers.