The early days of the internet were static, and interactions were limited to simple form submissions and page reloading. With the increased demand for user expectations, web developers have sought many ways to create a more dynamic and responsive web experience. In that case, real-time experience has become quite necessary for platforms like chatting, online gaming, financial dashboards and collaborative tools. 

Limitations of traditional HTTP 

HTTP is the protocol of the world wide web, and it follows a request-response model. When a client wishes to retrieve data from the server, they send a request, and the server, in return, responds with the requested data. This is a suitable model for many scenarios, but it is not apt for real-time updates. In the traditional HTTP model, the client has to initiate the request to the server to check for updates which might lead to latency and inefficiency.  

Introducing WebSocket 

WebSockets are a more efficient solution for real-time communication. Unlike the traditional pattern, WebSockets can provide a full duplex communication channel that enables bidirectional communication between the client and server. Therefore, it helps in improving communication between the server and the client and allows instant updates without the need for constant polling.  

How does WebSocket work? 

WebSockets are the persistent connector between the server and its user. Hence, it establishes a WebSocket handshake. Once the software developers establish a connection, data can be transmitted to both directions without the overhead of opening and closing the connections for an exchange. This persistent connection reduces latency and makes real-time communication more efficient. 

Advantages of WebSocket 

In conclusion, WebSocket has emerged to be a powerful tool for establishing real-time communication in software development. Their ability to provide low-latency, bidirectional communication has opened the door to a new era of interactive and dynamic web experiences. As the demand for real-time updates continues to grow, WebSockets will likely remain a cornerstone technology for developers seeking to deliver engaging and responsive web applications. Embracing WebSockets is not just a technological choice; it's a step towards a more connected and interactive internet.