Push (or server-push)

Push (or server-push) refers to a technique used in computer programming whereby a server sends data to a client without the client having specifically requested it. This is in contrast to the more common pull technique, where the client requests data from the server.

How does a server push work?

In computing, a push protocol is a network protocol in which the initiator of a communication pushes information to the receiver, as opposed to the more common pull protocol, in which the initiator requests information from the receiver.

A push protocol is typically used in scenarios where the initiator has new information to send to the receiver and there is no need for the receiver to request it. For example, a server might use a push protocol to send new email messages to a client as they arrive, rather than waiting for the client to request new messages.

Push protocols can be implemented in a number of ways, but the most common is to use a persistent connection between the initiator and receiver. The initiator sends new information to the receiver as it becomes available, and the receiver can either process it immediately or store it for later processing.

The main advantage of a push protocol is that it can be much more efficient than a pull protocol, since the initiator does not need to wait for a request from the receiver before sending new information.

There are a few disadvantages to using a push protocol, as well. First, it can be difficult to implement a push protocol in a way that is secure and does not allow unauthorized access to the information being pushed. Second, a push protocol can put a strain on network resources, since the initiator is sending information even if the receiver is not ready to receive it.

How do I push data from client to server?

In order to push data from a client to a server, the client must first establish a connection with the server. Once a connection is established, the client can then send data to the server. The server can then process the data and store it as needed.

Why is it called a push notification?

A "push notification" is a message that is "pushed" from a backend server to a client device. The name comes from the fact that the server "pushes" the notification to the client, as opposed to the client pulling data from the server.

Push notifications are used for a variety of purposes, such as to deliver news updates, alerts, and other kinds of information.

What is API push?

API stands for application programming interface. An API is a set of programming code that enables data communication between two software applications.

Push API refers to a type of API that allows a third-party application to send data to another application. Push APIs are typically used to send real-time data, such as notifications or messages, from one application to another.

Is HTTP a push protocol?

HTTP is not a push protocol. A push protocol is a protocol in which the sender of a message initiates the transfer of that message to the receiver. In contrast, a pull protocol is one in which the receiver initiates the transfer of messages from the sender. HTTP is a pull protocol because, in general, it is the client (i.e., the receiver of the message) that initiates a request for a resource from the server (i.e., the sender of the message).