Chat App

A real-time chat application built using the MERN Stack (MongoDB, Express.js, React, Node.js) with WebSockets for seamless communication.

Features

• User Authentication: Secure login and registration system
• Real-time Messaging: Instant chat functionality using WebSockets
• Private & Group Chats: One-on-one and group conversations
• Online Status Indicator: Shows user presence in real-time
• Responsive UI: Optimized for both mobile and desktop

Tech Stack

• Frontend: React.js
• Backend: Node.js, Express.js
• Database: MongoDB
• WebSockets: Socket.io for real-time communication

Installation & Setup

1. Clone the repository

   git clone https://github.com/ankitpathak62/ChatAPP.git
   cd ChatAPP

2. Install dependencies

   • Backend:

     npm install

   • Frontend:

     npm install

3. Set up environment variables

   • Create a .env file in the server folder and add:

     MONGO_URI=your_mongodb_connection_string
     JWT_SECRET=your_jwt_secret
     

4. Run the application

   • Start the backend server:

     npm start

   • Start the frontend:

     npm start

Usage

1. Register or log in to the chat application.
2. Start private conversations or create group chats.
3. Enjoy real-time messaging with WebSockets.

Future Enhancements

• Typing indicators
• Message read receipts
• Voice and video calls

License

This project is open-source and available under the MIT License.

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Feel free to contribute and enhance the project! 🚀