Multiplexing in HTTP/2

Introduction

HTTP/2 is a major revision of the HTTP network protocol, designed to improve web performance. One of its key features is multiplexing, which allows multiple requests and responses to be sent over a single TCP connection.

What is Multiplexing?

Multiplexing in the context of HTTP/2 refers to the ability to send multiple streams of data simultaneously over a single connection. Unlike HTTP/1.1, where each request must wait for the previous one to complete, multiplexing allows for more efficient use of network resources.

Benefits of Multiplexing

• Reduces latency by allowing concurrent requests.
• Improves resource utilization by minimizing idle connection time.
• Eliminates head-of-line blocking, a problem in HTTP/1.1.
• Optimizes data transfer efficiency.

Implementation in HTTP/2

In HTTP/2, multiplexing is achieved using streams, where each stream can carry a unique ID. This allows the server to send different responses for different requests over the same connection.

            // Example of sending multiple requests with multiplexing in HTTP/2
            const http2 = require('http2');
            const client = http2.connect('https://example.com');

            const req1 = client.request({ ':path': '/resource1' });
            const req2 = client.request({ ':path': '/resource2' });

            req1.on('response', (headers, flags) => {
                console.log('Response for resource1 received.');
            });

            req2.on('response', (headers, flags) => {
                console.log('Response for resource2 received.');
            });

            req1.end();
            req2.end();
            client.close();
            

Best Practices

1. Keep headers small to reduce overhead.
2. Utilize server push wisely to preemptively send resources.
3. Monitor and optimize resource loading sequences.
4. Use proper prioritization of streams to enhance user experience.

FAQ