IntraNetChat (Wi-Fi LAN Chat)

Simple local-network chat app for one host and multiple clients.

Important model

• Only one host runs server.py.
• All other devices run client.py and connect to the host IP.
• Everyone must be on the same Wi-Fi network.

Requirements

• Python 3.10+
• Devices must be allowed to reach host TCP port (default 9090)

Host setup (only one person does this)

1) Start the server

From this project folder:

python server.py --host 0.0.0.0 --port 9090

2) Find host IP address

On Windows PowerShell:

ipconfig

Share the Wi-Fi IPv4 address (example: 10.x.x.x or 192.168.x.x) with clients.

3) Open firewall (if needed)

Allow inbound TCP 9090 in Windows Defender Firewall for your current network profile.

4) Stop the server

• In host terminal: Ctrl + C
• Or from any connected client: /shutdown

Client setup (everyone else)

Option A: Connect directly from command line

python client.py --host <HOST_IP> --port 9090

Option B: Open GUI first, connect inside UI

python client.py

Then enter host and port in the app and click Connect.

Client UI usage

• Set nickname: enter name in Nick and click Set Nick
• Send public message: type in Message and click Send
• Send private message: set DM To + Text, click Send DM
• View users: click List Users
• Leave chat: click Quit

Protocol commands (supported by server)

• /nick <name>
• /list
• /msg <user> <text>
• /quit
• /shutdown

Troubleshooting (college Wi-Fi)

• If clients cannot connect, campus Wi-Fi may block peer-to-peer LAN traffic.
• Verify host IP and port are correct.
• Verify firewall allows inbound port 9090.
• If LAN is blocked, run server on a cloud VM/VPS and connect via public IP.

Security note

This prototype uses plain TCP (no encryption/authentication). Do not share sensitive data.