Chat App

🌟 Features

✅ User Authentication

• Secure Login, Register, and Logout system.
• Passwords are securely stored using bcrypt to prevent unauthorized access.
• JWT-based authentication ensures only verified users can access protected routes.
• Session management to keep users logged in securely.

🌗 Theme Toggle

• Choose between Light Mode and Dark Mode for a personalized chat experience.
• The theme preference is saved in local storage, ensuring a seamless experience across sessions.
• The UI dynamically updates when toggling between themes.

💬 Real-time Messaging

• Instant messaging powered by Socket.io.
• Message status indicators: See when messages are sent, delivered, and read.
• Messages are stored in MongoDB, ensuring they persist even after users log out.
• Typing indicators show when the other user is typing.
• Message timestamps provide clarity on when messages were sent.

🟢 Online & Offline Status

• Real-time updates on friends' online status.
• Notifications when a friend comes online or goes offline.
• Last seen status for offline users.
• Users can manually set their availability status (e.g., "Busy", "Away").

📎 File Sharing

• Send files as previewable links instead of large attachments.
• Supports images, videos, and documents.
• Files are stored securely and can be accessed through a generated preview link.
• Image previews appear directly in the chat window.

🚀 Tech Stack

• Frontend: React, Redux, Tailwind CSS
• Backend: Node.js, Express.js
• Database: MongoDB
• Authentication: JWT (JSON Web Tokens)
• WebSockets: Socket.io for real-time chat

📥 Installation

1️⃣ Clone the Repository

git clone https://github.com/SarimMalik01/Chat_2.git
cd Chat_2

2️⃣ Install Dependencies

Backend

cd api
npm install

Frontend

cd client
npm install

3️⃣ Configure Environment Variables

Create a .env file in the backend directory and add:

PORT=5000
MONGO_URI=your_mongodb_connection_string
JWT_SECRET=your_secret_key

4️⃣ Run the Application

Start the Backend Server

cd backend
npm start

Start the Frontend

cd frontend
npm start

🛠️ Usage

• Sign up or Login to your account.
• Add friends by searching their usernames.
• Start chatting with your friends in real time.
• Toggle themes for a better experience.
• Send and receive messages with instant updates.
• Share files through previewable links.
• Check online/offline status of friends.

📸 Screenshots

Login Page

Register Page

Chat Interface

Online Status

Dark Mode

Chat Home

File Sharing Preview

📝 License

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

👨‍💻 Developed by Sarim Malik