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Socket in Computer Network
Network Socket
A network socket is a software component within a computer network node that acts as
an endpoint for delivering and receiving data. An application programming interface (API)
for the networking architecture defines the structure and properties of a socket. Sockets
are only produced over the lifespan of a process in a node-based application.
Because the TCP/IP protocols were standardized during the creation of the Internet, the
word "network socket" is most often used in the context of the Internet Protocol suite,
and it is hence referred to as an "Internet Socket". In this context, a socket's address,
which is the triad of the transport protocol, IP address, and port number, is used to
externally identify it to other hosts.
The software endpoint of node-internal inter-process communication (IPC), which
frequently utilizes the same API as a network socket, is often referred to as a socket.
Pipes are formed using the 'Pipe' system call, and sockets are generated with the 'socket'
system call. Over the network, the socket allows bidirectional FIFO communication. At
either end of the connection, a socket connecting to the network is formed. Each socket
has its unique address. An IP address plus a port number make up this address.
In most client-server applications, sockets are used. The server builds a socket, connects
it to a network port, and waits for the client to connect to it. After creating a socket, the
client tries to connect to the server socket. Data is transferred after the link is established.
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Types of Sockets
1. Datagram Socket
A datagram socket is a type of network socket in which packets are sent and received
without the use of a link. It resembles a mailbox. Letters (data) are gathered and delivered
(transmitted) to a mailbox (receiving socket). It is a connection-less socket.
2. Stream Socket
A stream socket is a type of network socket in a computer operating system that
provides a connection-oriented, sequenced, and unique flow of data without record
boundaries, as well as well-defined mechanisms for creating and destroying connections
and detecting errors. It is comparable to a telephone. Between the phones (two ends), a
link is created.
Network Socket Client Server Interaction
The following diagram shows the complete Client and Server interaction
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Function Call Description
create() To construct a socket
bind() It's a socket identifier, similar to a phone number for contacting someone.
connect() Are you ready to make a connection?
listen() Prepared to send a message
accept() Confirmation is similar to accepting a call from a sender.
write() To send data
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Function Call Description
read() To receive data
close() To make a relationship permanent
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