Socket.IO is a popular JavaScript library that enables real-time, bidirectional communication between clients and servers. It simplifies the process of building real-time web applications by providing features like event-based communication, automatic reconnection, and multiplexing support. Socket.IO supports various transports, including WebSocket, AJAX long polling, and more, ensuring compatibility across different environments.
Compared to alternatives like WebSocket API or WebRTC, Socket.IO offers a higher level of abstraction and ease of use, making it ideal for developers looking to quickly implement real-time features in their applications. Socket.IO is actively maintained and widely used in the industry for building chat applications, online gaming platforms, and collaborative tools.
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