What is the function of sockets in PHP?

In PHP, Socket is a programming interface used for networking communication. It provides a mechanism for programs to communicate with other computers or devices over a network.

The main functions of Socket include:

1. Implementing network programming: Using Socket, it is possible to achieve network programming in PHP, including creating client and server network connections, sending and receiving data, and other operations.
2. Client/server communication: With Socket, it is possible to establish communication between clients and servers. Clients can send requests to servers, and servers can receive these requests and return the corresponding data.
3. Creating different types of network services such as web servers, FTP servers, and mail servers using Socket enables programs to offer services through networks.
4. Data exchange: Sockets can be used to transfer data between different computers. Programs can send data to other computers or receive data from them using sockets.

In conclusion, the role of Socket in PHP is to facilitate network communication, allowing programs to connect, send, and receive data with other computers or devices over the network.