A real-time connection allows clients and servers to exchange data instantly without repeated polling. Technologies such as WebSockets, server-sent events (SSE), and WebRTC maintain persistent, bidirectional communication channels. Real-time connections power chat apps, live dashboards, multiplayer games, and collaborative tools.
Why it matters
Real-time capability improves user experience and supports applications requiring immediate feedback. It reduces latency, network overhead, and delays caused by traditional request–response cycles.
Examples
A chat app using WebSockets or a live price feed updating instantly. Lessons like Real-Time Communication With WebSockets describe how real-time systems work.