Can JavaScript's WebSocket API Add Custom HTTP Headers?

Custom HTTP Headers in WebSockets Client API

The WebSocket API allows you to establish bidirectional communication channels with servers. While it supports specifying the path and protocol fields, it raises questions about how to add custom HTTP headers to enhance security or authentication.

Is it Possible to Specify Custom HTTP Headers in JavaScript WebSockets API?

Unfortunately, no. The JavaScript WebSockets API currently lacks a mechanism for adding arbitrary HTTP headers to client connections.

Available Header Options:

The API does allow you to specify the following headers:

• Path: The HTTP path (e.g., "/xyz") can be set through the WebSocket constructor.
• Protocol: The Sec-WebSocket-Protocol header (e.g., "protocol") can be set as the optional second argument to the constructor. This header is sometimes extended for WebSocket-specific authentication.

Alternative Authentication/Authorization Mechanisms:

Due to the limitation of sending custom headers, alternative approaches are employed for WebSocket authentication and authorization:

• Ticketing System: Implement a system where the client requests a ticket from the server and uses it during connection setup or as the first message after establishing the connection. This ensures that only authorized clients can connect.
• WebSockets Security: Implement security measures tailored specifically to WebSockets connections, such as requiring a valid ticket or verifying client IP addresses.

Deprecation of Basic Authentication:

Previously, the WebSocket API allowed basic authentication through the Authorization header. However, this feature has been deprecated, and modern browsers no longer send this header even if specified.

Conclusion:

While custom HTTP headers cannot be added to WebSocket client connections using the JavaScript WebSockets API, alternative mechanisms can be implemented for authentication and authorization. These methods ensure that only authorized clients can establish and maintain WebSocket connections.

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