Express and Socket.io node library

Express and Socket.io
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Difference between Express and Socket.io

Feature Express Socket.io
Functionality Express is a web application framework for building web applications in Node.js. It provides a set of robust features for web and mobile applications. Socket.io is a library that enables real-time, bidirectional and event-based communication between the browser and the server.
Protocol Express uses HTTP protocol for communication between the server and the client. Socket.io uses WebSockets as the default protocol for communication, but it also has fallback options like long polling for browsers that don’t support WebSockets.
Data transfer Express uses request and response objects for data transfer between the client and the server. It follows the request-response pattern. Socket.io uses events and event listeners for data transfer. It allows real-time bidirectional communication between the client and the server.
Scalability Express is not inherently scalable for real-time applications. It requires additional tools and techniques to achieve real-time functionality at scale. Socket.io is designed for real-time applications and provides built-in support for scalability. It can handle a large number of simultaneous connections efficiently.
Usage Express is commonly used for developing traditional web applications, RESTful APIs, and single-page applications. Socket.io is used for building real-time applications like chat applications, online gaming, collaborative editing tools, and more.
Event-driven Express is not event-driven. It follows a request-response model where the server waits for client requests and responds accordingly. Socket.io is event-driven. It allows the server to push data to the client whenever an event occurs, without the need for a client request.
Real-time updates Express requires the client to make periodic requests to get updates from the server. Socket.io provides real-time updates without the need for continuous requests. It enables instant data synchronization between the client and the server.