This document provides an overview of a basic IRC server implementation using the C++ programming language.
An IRC (Internet Relay Chat) server acts as a central network hub that facilitates communication between multiple clients. It manages connections, channels, and user commands, ensuring smooth and organized chat functionality.
The IRC server consists of several key components, each responsible for a specific aspect of the server's functionality:
- Information Storage: The server stores essential information about each client, including their IP address. This is crucial for identifying and banning clients if necessary.
- Connection and Welcome Message: Clients are able to connect to the server and are greeted with a welcome message upon connection.
- Private Chat: The server enables two clients to engage in private conversations. This is achieved through the creation of a private 'channel' that is exclusive to the participating users.
- Implementation: Channels are implemented as ordered maps, tracking all active clients within each channel.
- Broadcasting Messages: When a message is sent to a channel, it is broadcast to all clients currently in that channel.
- Banning Mechanism: Users banned from a channel are unable to rejoin it using their nickname and IP address.
- Functionality: The server processes various commands that clients use to interact with it.
- Command Objects: Commands are implemented as objects that take a user's input and their parameters for execution.
This IRC server aims to deliver a robust and efficient chat service, focusing on effective client management, seamless channel broadcasting, and responsive command processing. The use of C++ ensures a high-performance backend suitable for handling multiple client connections and real-time communication.
Note: This README is a brief overview of the IRC server's architecture and functionality. For detailed documentation on code structure, installation, and usage, please refer to the respective sections of the project documentation.