Web Sockets defines a
protocol for two-way communication with a remote host. This API is of great use to server-side developers, but is less relevant to front-end developers and designers.
Some browsers now have the native ability to establish a bi-directional socket connection between the browser and the server, using the WebSocket API. This means that both sides (browser and server) can send and receive data.
Browser Support
Web Sockets are supported in:
■ Safari 5+
■ Chrome 4+
■ Firefox 4+ (but disabled by default)
■ Opera 11+ (but disabled by default)
■ iOS (Mobile Safari) 4.2+
Web Sockets are currently unsupported in all versions of IE and on Android.
