🖥️ ChatServer

A simple and customizable chat application with a client-server architecture, designed for real-time communication.

ChatServer allows multiple users to connect to a central server and exchange messages in real-time. It features a modern, easy-to-use interface and includes customization options for server connection settings. The application is built with Java and utilizes Swing for the graphical interface.

Whether you're looking for a lightweight chat solution or a foundation for building more advanced networking applications, ChatServer provides a solid starting point!

📌 Features

✅ User Authentication – Users can log in with a unique username.
✅ Real-Time Messaging – Instant message exchange between connected clients.
✅ Customizable Server Connection – Easily change the server IP and port from the settings.
✅ Modern UI – A clean and user-friendly interface with custom colors.
✅ Automatic Reconnection Handling – Alerts when the server is unreachable.
✅ Multi-User Support – Multiple users can join and chat simultaneously.

🔄 Recent Upgrades

🔹 Added Settings Button – A gear icon in the top-right corner allows users to modify the server IP and port.
🔹 IP Validation – Ensures users enter a valid IP address before saving settings.
🔹 Improved Error Handling – Displays proper error messages for invalid inputs.
🔹 UI Enhancements – Improved button design and color scheme for a better experience.

🚀 Installation & Setup

1️⃣ Clone the repository:

git clone https://github.com./23Benji/ChatServer.git

2️⃣ Open the project in your preferred Java IDE.
3️⃣ Run the server first.
4️⃣ Launch the client and enter a username to join the chat.

⚙️ How to Change Server IP & Port

1. Click the gear icon (⚙️) in the top-right corner of the login window.
2. Enter the new IP address and port.
3. Click Save – The changes will apply immediately.

🛠️ Technologies Used

• Java (Swing & AWT) – For the GUI.
• Sockets – For network communication.

📝 To-Do List

🔲 Add private messaging feature.
🔲 Implement chat history storage.
🔲 Add emoji support.

🤝 Contributing

Contributions are welcome! Feel free to fork the repo and submit pull requests.

📄 License

This project is open-source under the MIT License.

🚀 Happy Chatting!