Removing WebSocket Support for a Smoother Editor Experience

In our continuous effort to enhance user experience and optimize performance, we have decided to remove WebSocket support from our editor. This strategic move will provide a smoother, more stable, and more responsive environment for users working on their projects. In this post, we'll delve into why this change was necessary and how it improves the overall experience.

Why We Removed WebSocket Support

WebSockets are a powerful technology that enables real-time, bidirectional communication between a client and a server. However, despite their advantages, they come with several challenges when implemented in an editor environment.

1. Performance Issues

• WebSocket connections require constant communication, which can lead to increased CPU and memory usage.
• High resource consumption affects overall performance, especially for users working with multiple tabs or complex projects.

2. Inconsistent Connectivity

• WebSocket connections are sensitive to network fluctuations, leading to potential disruptions.
• Users on unstable internet connections experienced frequent disconnects, impacting productivity.

3. Increased Server Load

• Persistent WebSocket connections put additional load on the server, increasing infrastructure costs.
• Removing WebSockets reduces unnecessary resource consumption, leading to better efficiency.

4. Better Compatibility

• Some environments and networks block WebSocket connections, leading to accessibility issues.
• Moving away from WebSockets ensures better cross-platform and cross-browser support.

The Alternative: Optimized HTTP-based Communication

To replace WebSockets, we have implemented a highly optimized HTTP-based long polling system. This new approach ensures:

• Faster Response Times: Reduced latency by optimizing request-response cycles.
• Improved Stability: No connection drops due to unstable networks.
• Lower Resource Usage: Efficient data fetching with minimal overhead.
• Scalability: Better handling of large user bases without unnecessary server strain.

Technical Explanation of Long Polling

Long polling is a technique where the client makes an HTTP request to the server, and instead of responding immediately, the server holds the request open until new data is available. Once the server responds with the latest data, the client immediately makes another request, creating a near real-time experience without maintaining a persistent connection.

Unlike WebSockets, which keep an open, bidirectional channel, long polling operates over standard HTTP(S) and is inherently more compatible with existing security infrastructures. By leveraging asynchronous request handling and efficient connection management, long polling minimizes redundant traffic while maintaining responsiveness.

Security Benefits of HTTP-based Polling

Security is a crucial factor when choosing a communication method. HTTP-based polling offers several advantages over WebSockets:

• Short-Lived Requests: Each request is independent, reducing the risk of session hijacking.
• Standard Security Protections: Built-in mechanisms like CSRF protection and authentication headers apply automatically.
• Less DDoS Risk: No persistent connection means reduced vulnerability to resource exhaustion attacks.
• Easier to Secure: HTTPS encrypts every request-response cycle, ensuring data integrity and confidentiality.

By adopting HTTP-based polling, we enhance not just performance but also security, making the editor safer for users.

How This Change Benefits Users

• Smoother Editing Experience: No more random disconnects or slow performance.
• Reduced Latency: Faster updates and changes within the editor.
• Lower Battery Consumption: Especially beneficial for mobile and laptop users.
• More Reliable Data Syncing: No risk of lost progress due to connection issues.

Conclusion

The removal of WebSocket support is a well-thought-out decision to ensure a seamless and efficient editing experience. By switching to optimized HTTP-based communication, we are providing a more stable, reliable, and high-performance environment for our users.

We are committed to continuously improving our platform and appreciate user feedback. If you have any questions or suggestions, feel free to reach out!

Stay tuned for more updates as we keep enhancing your experience!