What is a Socket?
A socket is a communication endpoint that allows different processes to communicate with each other on a network. It can be thought of as a door through which data flows between programs or between devices on a network.
Types of Sockets
- Stream Sockets: Used for TCP (Transmission Control Protocol) communication where data is sent as a continuous stream.
- Datagram Sockets: Used for UDP (User Datagram Protocol) communication where data is sent in discrete packets.
How Sockets Work
When a program wants to communicate with another program or device, it creates a socket and specifies the address and port of the remote device. Data is then sent through the socket to the specified address and port, allowing communication to take place.
Examples of Sockets
Web browsers use sockets to communicate with web servers when loading a website. Email clients use sockets to send and receive emails. Video streaming services use sockets to deliver video content to viewers.
Case Study: Socket Programming
In socket programming, developers can create their own network applications by defining how data is sent and received through sockets. This allows for custom communication protocols and efficient data transmission.
Statistics on Socket Usage
According to a survey, 90% of internet traffic is transmitted through TCP sockets, highlighting the widespread use of sockets in network communication.
