Chat

 Chat

 

Chat, chatter (English chatter - to chat) - a means of exchanging messages over a computer network in real time, as well as software that allows you to organize such communication. A characteristic feature is communication in real time or close to this, which distinguishes chat from forums and other "slow" means. The transmission of messages in real time is the main feature and advantage of chats. Despite the rapid growth of the information industry, the topic of text chats has not yet lost its relevance and they are often used in enterprises or offices when it is important to quickly receive or send important information.

There are several types of software implementation of chats:

· HTTP or web chats. Such a chat looks like a regular web page where you can read the last several dozen phrases written by chat participants and moderators. The chat page is automatically refreshed at a specified frequency.

· Chats using technology Adobe Flash. Instead of periodically reloading the page, a socket is opened between the client and the server, which allows you to send or receive messages instantly, using less traffic.

· Chat programs for communication in local networks (for example, Vypress Chat, Intranet Chat, Pichat). It is often possible to transfer files.

· Chats implemented on top of third-party protocols (for example, chat using ICQ).

Chats working on a client-server scheme, this allows them to be used in networks with complex configurations, as well as to manage client applications (for example, Mychat, Jabber)

chat client server network

In this course project, a client-server chat program will be developed, with the ability to communicate with several people at the same time (all2all) in a local network.

Theoretical analysis and design

Statement of the problem. System functions

The objective of this course work is to create a client-server chat, consisting of two separate programs: server and client. The server is the program to which the clients connect. The server accepts, sends, and processes requests that come from the client program. Multiple clients can connect to the server. 

Server functions

· Port selection for work.

· Connecting clients.

· Maintaining a list of all connected clients.

· Forwarding messages (Public or private).

· Functions of administration of clients (deletion, change of name, message on behalf of the administrator).

· Keeping a log (history of the server).

· Acceptance and transfer of files. 

Client functions

· Connect to the server using the server's IP address and port.

· Choosing a name (Nickname) under which you will be seen by the rest of the chat.

· Sending messages to all connected clients.

· Sending a private message.

· List of all server clients (receives from the server).

· Ability to send a file.