GridSync Messenger

GridSync Messenger is a real-time messaging application built to understand backend architecture end-to-end. It features seamless communication, efficient file sharing, and optimized storage for low-latency chat retrieval, built using Node.js, Express, MongoDB, Socket.io, and other essential technologies. This project includes user authentication, secure file sharing, and dynamic password recovery functionalities.

Features

1. Real-time Communication:

   • Implemented using Socket.io for instant message updates and notifications.
   • WebSocket ensures low-latency communication between users.

2. File Sharing:

   • Files are split into chunks, stored, and shared as links using S3, similar to popular social platforms.
   • Provides efficient storage and retrieval of large files, maintaining data integrity with GridFS.

3. Optimized Chat Storage:

   • Utilizes MongoDB for fast and reliable chat data retrieval, which is highly efficient for read-heavy applications, improving latency and user experience.

4. User Authentication:

   • Integrated Google Authentication using Passport.js.
   • Supports JWT-based middleware for secure, authenticated API requests.

5. Password Recovery:

   • Implements a forgot-password feature using dynamic links to reset passwords securely.

Technologies Used

• Node.js and Express.js: Backend server and API development.
• Socket.io: Real-time communication for low-latency messaging.
• MongoDB: Database management, optimized for high read efficiency.
• GridFS: File storage and retrieval for efficient handling of large files.
• AWS S3: Used for file chunking and storage.
• Passport.js: Google OAuth authentication.
• JWT (JSON Web Tokens): Secure middleware for user authentication.

Installation and Setup

1. Clone the repository: git clone https://github.com/yourusername/gridsync-messenger.git cd gridsync-messenger

2. Install dependencies: npm install

3. Set up environment variables:

4. Run the application: npm start

5. Access the app:

   • The server should be running on http://localhost:5000.

Usage

1. Real-time Chat:

   • Users can exchange messages in real-time with low latency.

2. File Sharing:

   • Files are uploaded, chunked, stored, and a link is generated for the receiver.

3. User Authentication:

   • Users can sign in using Google and are authenticated for secure messaging.

4. Password Recovery:

   • If users forget their passwords, they can reset them through an emailed dynamic link.

Project Structure

• /models - Contains MongoDB schema models for users and messages.
• /routes - API endpoints for handling user authentication, messaging, and file uploads.
• /controllers - Core logic for handling real-time communication, user authentication, and file sharing.
• /middleware - Authentication middleware using JWT for secure route access.

Future Enhancements

• Group Chat: Support for group messaging and file sharing.
• Advanced File Types: Enhanced support for various file types beyond basic documents and images.
• Message Reactions: Add reactions or emojis to enhance user interaction.

Contributing

Contributions are welcome! Please follow these steps:

1. Fork the repository.
2. Create a new branch for your feature: git checkout -b feature-name.
3. Commit your changes: git commit -m 'Add new feature'.
4. Push to the branch: git push origin feature-name.
5. Submit a pull request.

License

This project is licensed under the MIT License.

Contact

Naveen Kumar

• GitHub: Naveen1745
• LinkedIn: Naveen1745

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Thank you for checking out GridSync Messenger! If you have any questions or feedback, feel free to reach out.