WHAT IS: WebSocket

I used to wonder how my Messenger delivered messages instantly without me having to do anything. A message or a bunch of messages just pop up without me initiating it. It felt like magic, but I eventually discovered it’s just technology working behind the scenes to keep everything in sync in real time.

Most of the internet doesn't work this way. Traditionally, websites only show you new information when you ask for it (by refreshing the page, clicking a button, or performing a search). But as everything has evolved, we want things to be delivered live. We expect instant updates, instant chats, and real-time reactions. This is where WebSocket comes in.

It’s the invisible thread that allows your browser and a server to stay connected so they can talk to each other freely and instantly without constantly knocking on each other’s doors for updates.

In this guide, we will teach you everything about WebSocket, and especially how it’s different from the traditional HTTP communication protocol we are familiar with. 

WHAT IS: Application Programming Interface (API)

Learn about the abstraction layer that enables communication between software systems, powering modern digital interactions.

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What Is WebSocket?

WebSocket is a communication protocol that allows for persistent, two-way communication between a client (like your web browser) and a server.

Imagine you’re on a phone call with a friend. You can both talk, listen, interrupt each other, or stay silent. That’s real-time, two-way communication. Now, imagine instead that your friend can only talk after you say something first. Every time you want to hear from them, you have to call them again and ask, “Got anything to say?” That’s more like traditional web communication.

WebSocket is like a phone call. It allows a live, back-and-forth connection between your device (your phone or browser) and a server (the computer on the other end) so they can exchange data freely without needing to hang up and call back every time.

Why Does WebSocket Matter?

Traditional HTTP works fine for most websites, but it has a limitation: it’s unidirectional. The client asks, and the server answers. If you want real-time updates (like in a chat app), you’d have to keep asking repeatedly, which quickly becomes inefficient. WebSockets fix that, as it is bidirectional and persistent. One connection stays open, unlike HTTP, where each request opens and closes a new connection.

How Does WebSocket Work?

1/ It Starts with a Handshake

Think of a WebSocket connection as starting a conversation with a handshake. Your browser (client) says to the server, “Hey, I’d like to keep this line open so we can talk freely.” The server replies, “Sounds good. Line’s open.” Once this handshake happens, the door stays open until either side decides to close it.

2/ A Persistent Connection Is Formed

Unlike HTTP, which starts and ends with each request, WebSocket keeps the line alive. It’s like leaving the phone off the hook so you can chat anytime. Neither side has to reintroduce themselves. Messages can flow whenever needed.

3/ Data Travels in Both Directions

Once the connection is up, the server can push updates instantly (like a message from a friend), and the client can send data anytime (like replying in a chat). Both sides can send and receive at the same time.

4/ It Only Ends When Someone Hangs Up

The connection stays active until either the client or the server says, “Okay, I’m done” and closes it. If one side ends the conversation, the connection shuts down completely.

Examples of WebSocket in Real Time

Chat Applications

When you send a message in a chat app (like WhatsApp), it appears instantly on the other person’s screen. That’s WebSocket working to deliver messages without delay.

Online Games

In multiplayer games, player movements and game events happen in real time. WebSocket helps keep everyone’s screen in sync without reloading or lagging.

Crypto & Stock Trading Platforms

Platforms like Binance or Robinhood stream prices live. Every little market movement is pushed in real-time using WebSockets.

Collaborative Tools

Tools like online whiteboards, document editors (like Google Docs), or video conferencing platforms use WebSocket to show changes immediately when one participant edits something.

Conclusion

With everything moving fast, we expect instant updates, whether it's chat messages, live game scores, or stock market prices. WebSockets are the silent warriors making it all happen smoothly in the background.

They keep a steady line of communication open between your device and the server so information can flow back and forth without interruption. No more knocking with each new request, just a clean, continuous conversation. While they’re not the right tool for every job (especially if you’re just pulling old data once in a while), WebSockets are perfect when real-time interaction is key.

So next time you see a live comment appear on your screen or a score update before the commentator even catches up, you’ll know there’s a WebSocket at work quietly keeping you in sync with the moment.