long-polling

Manage HTTP long polling to push real-time notifications from server to client.

Updated Jun 5, 2026

Search Tags:#http #websockets #notification #long polling #real-time notifications

Ready to run

npx skills add https://github.com/hung-phan/system-skills --skill long-polling

💬 Prompt for ChatGPT / Claude Chat▼

Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: long-polling
Source: https://github.com/hung-phan/system-skills/tree/main/skills/system-review/references/communication/long-polling
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/hung-phan/system-skills --skill long-polling

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

💡 This Skill includes scripts (resource) and references (resource) components.

What problem does it solve?

This Skill enables near-real-time server-side push notifications via HTTP long polling, providing a reliable method for clients to be notified of events in real-time, without the overhead of WebSockets or short polling.

Core Features & Use Cases

Real-time Notifications: Push events to clients as they occur, without the client constantly polling the server.
Cross-Browser and Proxy Compatibility: Works with browsers and behind proxies that block WebSocket connections.
Use Case: Use this Skill when developing applications that require real-time updates from the server, such as chat applications or mobile notifications, and where WebSocket support is not available.

Quick Start

Start long polling on the 'events' endpoint to receive notifications for new events.

Frequently Asked Questions about long-polling

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema

How do I push real-time notifications to a client when WebSockets are blocked?▼

HTTP long polling pushes real-time notifications to clients by holding an HTTP request open until new events occur, providing a reliable fallback when WebSocket connections are blocked by proxies or corporate policies.

What is HTTP long polling and how does it work for server-side push?▼

HTTP long polling is a technique where the server holds an HTTP request open until new data is available, then sends the response immediately to push near-real-time notifications without clients constantly polling the server.

When should I use long polling instead of WebSockets for real-time updates?▼

Use long polling instead of WebSockets when working with low event rates, across restrictive browsers or proxy setups that block persistent connections, or where network constraints make WebSockets infeasible.

Does long polling work behind corporate proxies that block persistent connections?▼

Yes, long polling works behind corporate proxies and restrictive network setups by using standard HTTP requests instead of persistent connections, ensuring clients still receive real-time event notifications.

How do I start receiving real-time events using HTTP long polling?▼

To start receiving real-time events with HTTP long polling, direct your client to poll a designated server endpoint, which will hold the connection open and push notifications as new events occur.

Are there limitations to using long polling for real-time chat applications?▼

Long polling is best suited for low event rate applications like chat or mobile notifications; it carries higher overhead than WebSockets for high-frequency updates, making it less ideal for heavy real-time data streams.