A socket is a software endpoint that enables communication between two devices over a network. It allows programs to send and receive data, facilitating interactions between computers, servers, and other networked devices. Sockets can be used in various applications, such as web browsing, email, and online gaming. In computer networking, sockets are typically associated with the Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) and User Datagram Protocol (UDP). TCP sockets provide reliable, ordered communication, while UDP sockets offer faster, but less reliable, data transmission. Both types of sockets are essential for enabling real-time communication in applications like video conferencing and online chat.