How to Test WebSocket Connections

Connect to any WebSocket server, send messages, and inspect responses in real-time. Free browser-based WebSocket testing tool with message history.

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Step-by-Step Guide

1

Enter the WebSocket URL

Type or paste the WebSocket server URL (ws:// or wss://) into the connection field. You can also add custom headers or subprotocols if your server requires them for authentication or routing.

2

Connect to the server

Click "Connect" to establish a WebSocket connection. The status indicator turns green when connected. If the connection fails, the tool displays the error code and reason for quick debugging.

3

Send messages

Type a message in the input area and click "Send". Support for plain text and JSON payloads. The message log shows your sent messages with timestamps so you can track the conversation flow.

4

Inspect responses

Incoming messages from the server appear in real-time in the message log. Each message shows its timestamp, size, and content. JSON responses are automatically formatted for readability.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is a WebSocket?
WebSocket is a protocol that provides full-duplex communication over a single TCP connection. Unlike HTTP, the server can push data to the client without being asked. It is used for real-time features like chat, live updates, and streaming.
What is the difference between ws:// and wss://?
ws:// is unencrypted WebSocket (like HTTP), while wss:// is encrypted with TLS (like HTTPS). Always use wss:// in production for security. Most modern browsers block ws:// connections from HTTPS pages.
What are common WebSocket use cases?
Real-time chat applications, live dashboards and data feeds, multiplayer games, collaborative editing (like Google Docs), stock tickers, notifications, and IoT device communication.
Related Reference

JavaScript Cheat Sheet

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