What are the pros and cons of long polling?

What are the pros and cons of long polling?

Long polling is a web communication technique where the client requests information from the server and the server holds the request open until new data is available. The pros include real-time updates and reduced server load compared to traditional polling. However, the cons involve increased latency and complexity in implementation.

Can you explain how long polling works in more detail?

Sure! In long polling, the client sends a request to the server. If the server has no new information, it doesn't immediately respond; instead, it keeps the connection open until new data is available or a timeout occurs. Once the server responds, the client can immediately send a new request, creating a continuous loop.

What are some alternatives to long polling?

Alternatives to long polling include WebSockets, which provide a full-duplex communication channel, and Server-Sent Events (SSE), which allow servers to push updates to clients. Each method has its own use cases and benefits.

Is long polling still relevant with newer technologies?

Yes, long polling is still relevant, especially in scenarios where WebSockets or SSE are not supported. It's a useful technique for achieving near real-time communication in various applications.