What it is
A point to point channel delivers each message to exactly one receiver, even when several receivers listen on the same channel. It contrasts with publish subscribe, where every subscriber gets a copy.
How it works
- Senders place messages on the channel.
- One or more receivers compete to read.
- The channel ensures only one receiver consumes a given message.
Why it matters
- Guarantees a unit of work is processed once, not duplicated.
- Lets you scale by adding receivers that share the load on the same channel.
- Fits command style messaging where a task must run a single time.
A point to point channel is the foundation for competing consumers. If two receivers could both take the same message, a payment or order might be processed twice. The channel removes a message once it is handed to a receiver, so peers see only what remains.
Key idea
A point to point channel ensures each message is consumed by exactly one receiver, even when many receivers compete.