What feature distinguishes a web socket connection from traditional HTTP requests?

A web socket connection is characterized by its ability to facilitate real-time, ongoing communication after the initial connection has been established. Unlike traditional HTTP requests, which follow a request-response model where each interaction is independent and creates a new connection, web sockets enable a persistent connection.

This persistent connection allows for bi-directional communication, meaning that both the server and the client can send and receive messages at any time without the need to establish a new connection for each interaction. This capability is particularly advantageous for applications that require instant data updates, such as chat applications, online gaming, and live notifications, where timely communication is crucial.

The other options may hint at various networking concepts, but they do not capture the unique and defining characteristic of web sockets that enables continuous data exchange. This real-time communication aspect is what truly sets web sockets apart from the traditional request-response model of HTTP.