Chat Server | Go

A secure, concurrent, terminal-based chat server built in Go using TCP and TLS.

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Features

• TLS-based secure communication
  Ensures encrypted communication between client and server using a trusted certificate authority.

• Concurrent client handling using goroutines
  Each client connection runs in its own goroutine, allowing multiple users to chat simultaneously.

• Channel-based message broadcasting
  Messages are sent through a central broadcast channel and distributed to all connected clients.

• JSON-based client–server protocol
  All communication is structured using JSON for simplicity and consistency.

• Terminal UI client using tview
  Provides an interactive terminal interface with a chat window, input field, and active users panel.

• Unique username enforcement
  The server ensures that no two clients can join with the same username.

• Active user list synchronization
  The server maintains and broadcasts the list of connected users to all clients in real time.

• Basic command support:

  • /nick <name>
    Changes your current username to <name> if it is not already taken.

  • /whoami
    Displays your current username and whether you are the host.

  • /exit
    Disconnects you from the server and closes the client session.

Tech Stack

• Go (Golang)
• TCP Networking
• TLS / X.509 Certificates
• Goroutines & Channels
• JSON
• Terminal UI

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Usage

Run server:

go run main.go -host

Run client:

go run main.go

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