> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://tradewatch.io/docs/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Introduction

> TradeWatch REST API introduction and core concepts.

The TradeWatch WebSocket API provides a low-latency, bidirectional stream for real-time financial market data. While the [REST API](/api-reference/introduction) is ideal for historical data and snapshots, the WebSocket API is built for applications that require immediate updates, such as trading bots, real-time dashboards, and execution engines.

With a single persistent connection, you can subscribe to thousands of tickers across all supported asset classes and receive tick-by-tick updates as they happen.

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## Getting Started

To begin streaming real-time data, follow these steps:

1. **Compare API Types:** Ensure WebSockets are the right choice for your project. If you only need occasional updates, the [REST API](/platform/api-types) might be more efficient.
2. **Authentication:** You will use the same credentials as the REST API. Review the [Authentication guide](/platform/authentication) to manage your API Keys.

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## Core Concepts

### Connection Details

* **Base URL:** `wss://api.tradewatch.io/`
* **Format:** JSON
* **Protocol:** Secure WebSocket (WSS)

### Connection Lifecycle

Unlike standard HTTP requests, a WebSocket connection involves a handshake followed by a persistent stream:

* **Handshake:** Establish a secure connection using your [API Key](/platform/authentication).
* **Subscription:** Once connected, send a JSON "subscribe" message specifying the symbols you wish to track.
* **Heartbeats:** The server sends periodic pings to ensure the connection is alive. Ensure your client is configured to respond with pongs to prevent [Limits](/platform/limits) or timeouts.

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## Real-Time Asset Classes

You can subscribe to real-time streams for any of the following categories. Click a link below to view the specific message schemas and available symbols for each:

* **[Currencies](/api-reference/currencies/currencies-real-time-quotes):** Ultra-low latency Forex feeds and major/minor pairs.
* **[Crypto](/api-reference/crypto/crypto-real-time-quotes):** Real-time price action for global digital assets.
* **[Stocks](/api-reference/stocks/stocks-real-time-quotes):** Live updates for international equity markets.
* **[Indices](/api-reference/indices/indices-real-time-quotes):** Real-time tracking of global market benchmarks.
* **[Commodities](/api-reference/commodities/commodities-real-time-quotes):** Live pricing for metals, energy, and agriculture.

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## Account & Support

Your WebSocket usage, including concurrent connection counts and message throughput, contributes to your [Usage Statistics](/api-reference/account/usage-statistics).

For technical assistance with your WebSocket integration, please visit our [Support Page](/platform/support) or reach out to our engineering team at [hello@tradewatch.io](mailto:hello@tradewatch.io).