WebSocket API is a powerful browser-based technology that enables real-time, bidirectional communication between a client (typically a web browser) and a server. Unlike traditional HTTP, which follows a request-response model, WebSockets establish a persistent connection that allows data to flow freely in both directions. This reduces latency and overhead, making WebSockets ideal for applications that require instantaneous updates or continuous data exchange.

Operating over the ws: (non-secure) or wss: (secure) protocols, the WebSocket connection begins with an HTTP handshake before switching to the WebSocket protocol. Once established, the connection remains open until explicitly closed by either the client or the server. This setup enables efficient and uninterrupted communication while minimizing network overhead, thanks to a streamlined message frame structure. This makes WebSockets a more resource-efficient alternative to traditional polling or long-polling methods.

The WebSocket API has become an essential tool for modern web development due to its ability to handle real-time interactions effectively. Common use cases include:

• Chat applications: Enabling seamless, live messaging between users.
• Real-time notifications: Providing instant updates for stock prices, sports scores, or system alerts.
• Collaborative tools: Supporting real-time shared document editing or whiteboarding.
• Multiplayer online games: Allowing fast and synchronized communication between players.

By facilitating seamless, low-latency data exchange, WebSockets enhance the responsiveness and interactivity of web applications, making them a cornerstone technology for building dynamic, real-time web experiences.

• WebSocket API Overview by MDN Web Docs.

• Creating WebSocket Applications (MDN): Step-by-step guide to building WebSocket clients.
• WebSocket Client and Server Example: Interactive WebSocket testing tool and example.

• Socket.IO: A popular library for simplifying WebSocket implementations.
• ws: A lightweight WebSocket library for Node.js.
• SignalR: A framework for adding real-time capabilities to .NET applications.

• WebSocket.org Echo Test: A simple online tool to test WebSocket connections.
• Postman WebSocket Support: Use Postman for testing WebSocket communications.

• WebSocket Tag on Stack Overflow: A community for troubleshooting and questions.
• r/Web_Development: Discussions and resources for web developers, including WebSocket-related topics.

https://developer.mozilla.org/en-US/docs/Web/API/WebSockets_API