README.md

Chat Application Using MERN Stack and Socket.io

Overview

This chat application leverages the MERN stack (MongoDB, Express, React, Node.js) and Socket.io to provide a robust, real-time messaging platform. The application includes user authentication and will support both single and group chat functionalities.

Features

Current Features

1. User Authentication:

   • Sign Up: Users can create a new account by providing a username, email, and password. The data is stored securely in a MongoDB database.
   • Login: Existing users can log in using their email and password. Upon successful authentication, users are granted access to the chat functionalities.

2. Routing:

   • Simple and intuitive routes are set up for the Sign Up and Login pages, allowing for easy navigation within the application.

Upcoming Features

1. Single Chat:

   • Real-Time Messaging: Using Socket.io, users will be able to send and receive messages in real time.
   • Private Conversations: Users can initiate private, one-on-one conversations with other users.
   • Message Persistence: Messages will be stored in MongoDB to ensure that users can view their chat history even after logging out.

2. Group Chat:

   • Group Creation: Users can create chat groups and add other users.
   • Multi-User Conversations: Messages sent in a group chat will be broadcast to all members of the group.
   • Admin Controls: Group creators will have admin privileges to manage group membership and settings.

Technologies Used

• Frontend: React

  • React Components: Modular and reusable components for user interface elements.
  • React Router: For navigation between Sign Up, Login, and Chat pages.

• Backend: Node.js & Express

  • Express Server: Handles API requests and serves the React application.
  • Authentication: Secure user authentication using JSON Web Tokens (JWT).

• Database: MongoDB

  • Mongoose: For object data modeling to interact with MongoDB.
  • User Schema: Defines the structure for user data including encrypted passwords.

• Real-Time Communication: Socket.io

  • WebSockets: Enables real-time bidirectional communication between the client and server.
  • Event Handling: Custom events for sending and receiving messages, joining chat rooms, and more.