Server Push
ELI5 — The Vibe Check
Server push is when the server sends data to the client without being asked. Instead of the client constantly asking 'any updates?' the server says 'here, I have something for you' when there's news. It's the difference between checking your mailbox and having a doorbell.
Real Talk
A communication pattern where the server initiates data transmission to the client without an explicit client request. Implementations include HTTP/2 Server Push (pre-loading resources), Server-Sent Events (one-way event streams), WebSockets (bidirectional), and push notifications. Each has different use cases and tradeoffs.
When You'll Hear This
"We use server push for real-time notifications so users don't have to refresh the page." / "HTTP/2 server push for assets is being deprecated — most CDNs found it hurt performance more than it helped."
Related Terms
Long Polling
Long polling is a hack to fake real-time updates before WebSocket existed. Your client asks 'any new messages?
Push Notification
Push notifications are those little messages that pop up on your phone even when the app is closed.
Server-Sent Events
Server-Sent Events (SSE) is like subscribing to a news feed from the server.
WebSocket
WebSocket is like upgrading a walkie-talkie from push-to-talk to a full phone call.