WebSockets protocol allows for full-duplex communication between a client and a server over a single, long-lasting TCP connection. It is particularly useful in scenarios where real-time, bidirectional communication is needed, such as chat applications, live feeds, and interactive games. Unlike HTTP, WebSockets keep the connection open, enabling both parties to send data independently at any time.
Python Implementation
Installation
WebSocket Server
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| import asyncio
import websockets
IP = 'localhost'
PORT = 8765
async def handle_connection(websocket, path):
async for message in websocket:
await websocket.send(message)
print(f'Received: {message}')
start_server = websockets.serve(handle_connection, IP, PORT)
asyncio.get_event_loop().run_until_complete(start_server)
asyncio.get_event_loop().run_forever()
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WebSocket Client
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| import asyncio
import websockets
IP = 'localhost'
PORT = 8765
async def communicate():
async with websockets.connect(f'ws://{IP}:{PORT}') as websocket:
name = input("Enter your name: ")
await websocket.send(name)
response = await websocket.recv()
print(f"Server says: {response}")
asyncio.get_event_loop().run_until_complete(communicate())
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Node.js Implementation
Installation
WebSocket Server
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| const WebSocket = require('ws');
const server = new WebSocket.Server({ port: 8765 });
server.on('connection', (socket) => {
socket.on('message', (message) => {
console.log(`Received message: ${message}`);
socket.send(`Hello, ${message}`);
});
socket.send('Welcome to the WebSocket server!');
});
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WebSocket Client
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| const WebSocket = require('ws');
const socket = new WebSocket('ws://localhost:8765');
socket.addEventListener('open', () => {
socket.send('Hello Server!');
});
socket.addEventListener('message', (event) => {
console.log('Message from server:', event.data);
});
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Tips and Best Practices
- SSL/TLS Usage: For secure communication, use
wss:// (WebSocket Secure) instead of ws://. This is crucial for production environments. - Handling Connections: Ensure robust error handling and reconnection logic in both client and server code.
- Scaling: Consider using WebSocket libraries that support clustering and load balancing for handling multiple connections efficiently.
- Proxy Configuration: When deploying behind a proxy like nginx, configure the proxy to correctly forward WebSocket traffic to your server.
- Heartbeats: Implement heartbeats (regular pings) to keep the connection alive, especially if you’re dealing with network components that may close idle connections.
Additional Resources
