In this course, you will master WebSockets, learning to create real-time, interactive web applications with efficient two-way communication. By the end, you will be able to establish WebSocket connections, handle secure communication, and manage data transfer through WebSocket frames. You’ll also learn how to implement WebSocket headers, use the WebSocket API for event-driven applications, and troubleshoot using tools like Wireshark. Additionally, you will understand the key differences between WebSockets, AJAX, polling, and other real-time communication methods.
WebSockets Protocol Explained – Master Web Development
WebSockets Protocol Explained – Master Web Development
Instructor: Packt - Course Instructors
Included with 
Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
Intermediate level
Recommended experience
13 hours to complete
3 weeks at 4 hours a week
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace
Earn a Certificate
With paid plans
What you'll learn
Learn how to establish and manage WebSocket connections in real-time applications.
Understand the WebSocket handshake, headers, and security measures like Sec-WebSocket-Key.
Gain hands-on experience with the WebSocket API to build interactive, event-driven web apps.
Explore WebSocket data frames, including control frames, masking, and efficient payload handling.
Skills you'll gain
Details to know
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Recently updated!
May 2025
Assessments
7 assignments
Taught in English
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There are 7 modules in this course
In this module, we will introduce WebSockets as a modern communication protocol designed for real-time, two-way communication. We will also explore the foundational concepts of the internet, HTTP, and the evolution of WebSockets. Finally, we will cover the protocol’s history, specifications, and key use cases.
What's included
14 videos1 reading1 assignment
In this module, we will dive into the networking fundamentals that WebSockets rely on, including TCP/IP layers and the TCP handshake. We will explore the network layer's structure, port handling, and the importance of IP addresses and MAC addresses. Additionally, we will compare traditional socket communication with WebSocket technology.
What's included
12 videos1 assignment
In this module, we will walk you through the process of opening a WebSocket connection, including the HTTP handshake and WebSocket-specific headers. You will gain hands-on experience with Base64 encoding, learn about key headers like Sec-WebSocket-Key, and explore how WebSocket is event-driven to support real-time communication.
What's included
18 videos1 assignment
In this module, we will teach you how to leverage the WebSocket API to build interactive real-time web applications. You’ll learn to establish connections, handle events, and send and receive messages through WebSockets. We will also implement error handling and status updates to ensure a seamless user experience in your project.
What's included
35 videos1 assignment
In this module, we will focus on the structure of WebSocket data frames and their role in communication. We’ll cover the different frame types, including control and non-control frames, and explore security features like masking. Additionally, we’ll delve into data fragmentation and payload sizes to better understand how WebSockets handle large volumes of data.
What's included
21 videos1 assignment
In this module, we will explore the alternatives to WebSockets, including AJAX, short and long polling, and Server-Sent Events (SSE). You’ll also learn about CORS security mechanisms, the challenges of using WebSockets over different HTTP versions, and the best practices for scaling WebSocket connections to support high-demand environments.
What's included
9 videos1 assignment
In this final module, we will recap all the core concepts covered in the course. We’ll review the practical applications of WebSockets, emphasizing how they can be used to build real-time, scalable, and interactive web applications. This is your opportunity to solidify your understanding and prepare for implementing WebSockets in future projects.
What's included
1 video1 assignment
Instructor
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can preview the first video and view the syllabus before you enroll. You must purchase the course to access content not included in the preview.
If you decide to enroll in the course before the session start date, you will have access to all of the lecture videos and readings for the course. You’ll be able to submit assignments once the session starts.
Once you enroll and your session begins, you will have access to all videos and other resources, including reading items and the course discussion forum. You’ll be able to view and submit practice assessments, and complete required graded assignments to earn a grade and a Course Certificate.
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