(1) In UNIX and some other operating systems, a software object that connects an application to a network protocol. In UNIX, for example, a program can send and receive TCP/IP messages by opening a socket and reading and writing data to and from the socket. This simplifies program development because the programmer need only worry about manipulating the socket and can rely on the operating system to actually transport messages across the network correctly. Note that a socket in this sense is completely soft – it’s a software object, not a physical component.
(2) A receptacle into which a plugcan be inserted.
(3)A receptacle for a microprocessor or other hardware component. See also CPU socket.
