# Do you support WebSocket connections?

> WebSocket connections are not supported on shared hosting. A Managed VPS gives you the control needed to run them.

Source: https://helpcenter.ruachost.com/faq/guides/do-you-support-websocket-connections/

**No.** WebSocket connections are not supported on shared hosting packages.

## What are WebSockets?

WebSockets keep a connection open between a visitor's browser and your server, so data can flow both ways instantly. They power live chat, real-time notifications, multiplayer games and live dashboards. Each open connection uses server resources continuously, which doesn't suit shared hosting.

## Alternatives

- **Managed VPS:** on a VPS you can run a WebSocket server. See [Configuring and using WebSocket connections](https://helpcenter.ruachost.com/developers/guides/configuring-and-using-websocket-connections/).
- **Polling or server-sent updates:** for simple features, your page can check the server for updates every few seconds using normal requests.
- **A third-party real-time service** for chat or notifications, which handles the open connections for you.

## Need help?

[Open a support ticket](https://dashboard.ruachost.com/submitticket.php) from your Ruachost client area and our team will help.