Definition:
Server-Sent Events (SSE) is a web standard that allows a server to automatically push real-time updates to a web browser over a single HTTP connection. Unlike WebSockets, SSE is unidirectional (server-to-client only) and uses simple HTTP, making it perfect for live feeds, notifications, and real-time data streams.
Key Features
- One-way communication: Server → Client only
- Automatic reconnection: Browser reconnects if connection drops
- Simple HTTP: Uses standard HTTP protocol
- Event-based: Structured data with event types
- Built-in browser support: Native JavaScript API
Example:
- Live feeds: Social media updates, news feeds
- Real-time dashboards: Analytics, monitoring systems
- Notifications: Chat messages, alerts
- Live sports scores: Game updates
- Financial data: Stock prices, trading updates