What is long polling?

Long polling is a technique used to enable real-time data exchange between a server and a client by emulating a push mechanism. In traditional polling, the client regularly checks the server for updates, which can lead to inefficient use of resources and increased latency. Long polling, on the other hand, allows the client to request information from the server, and the server keeps the request open until new data is available. Once the data becomes available, the server responds to the client's request, providing the updated information. This method creates a more efficient communication pattern, as it reduces the number of requests and provides data as soon as it's available, closely mimicking a push notification system from the server to the client.

The other options do not accurately describe long polling. Initiating a connection does not define the concept; rather, it's a part of many communication protocols. Storing data temporarily refers to caching or session storage, which is unrelated to long polling. Batch data processing involves handling large volumes of data in groups, which is distinctly different from the real-time interaction facilitated by long polling.