Socket.IO is a 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 traditional HTTP polling or long-polling techniques, Socket.IO offers a more efficient and responsive way to handle real-time data exchange. It is actively maintained and widely used in applications requiring real-time updates, such as chat applications, online gaming, and collaborative tools.
Tags: javascriptreal-timecommunicationwebsocketsevent-based