Simple Chat (Node.js + React + WebSockets)

A lightweight real-time chat application built with Node.js, React, and WebSockets. It demonstrates a basic client–server architecture where multiple users can connect and exchange messages instantly.

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Features

• Real-time messaging using WebSockets
• React frontend interface
• Node.js backend server
• Multiple clients can connect simultaneously
• Lightweight and easy to run locally

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Tech Stack

• Node.js
• WebSockets (ws)
• React
• JavaScript

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Project Structure

server/
  server.js

client/
  src/
  package.json

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Installation

1. Clone the repository

git clone <repo-url>
cd simple-chat

2. Install server dependencies

cd server
npm install

3. Install client dependencies

cd ../client
npm install

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Running the Application

Start the WebSocket server

cd server
node server.js

Start the React client

cd client
npm start

The app should now be available in your browser.

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How It Works

1. The Node.js server creates a WebSocket server.

2. The React client connects to the WebSocket endpoint.

3. When a user sends a message:

   • It is sent to the server
   • The server broadcasts the message to all connected clients

4. All users see the message instantly.

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Possible Improvements

• Usernames / authentication
• Chat rooms
• Message persistence (database)
• Message timestamps
• Typing indicators
• Better UI styling