Server and Client Project

Overview

This project is a simple implementation of a client-server model using C++ and Winsock API. The project demonstrates basic network communication between a server and multiple clients. The server can handle multiple clients simultaneously, and clients can send text messages, register usernames, and execute specific commands on the server.

Features

• Server Side:

  • Accepts multiple client connections.
  • Supports commands from clients such as user registration, exit, and retrieving a list of connected users.
  • Outputs client messages to the server console.

• Client Side:

  • Connects to the server via IP address and port.
  • Allows users to input a username and send messages to the server.
  • Supports commands like registering the user, exiting the connection, and retrieving a list of connected users.

Installation and Setup

Prerequisites

• Windows OS: The project relies on the Winsock API, which is available on Windows.
• C++ Compiler: Ensure you have a C++ compiler that supports C++11 or higher.
• Visual Studio: The project was developed using Visual Studio, and you can use the provided .sln file to open the project.

Building the Project

1. Clone the repository or download the project files.
2. Open the serverandclient.sln solution file in Visual Studio.
3. Build the solution by selecting Build > Build Solution or pressing Ctrl + Shift + B.
4. After a successful build, you will have two executables: one for the server and one for the client.

Running the Server

1. Open a terminal and navigate to the directory containing the server executable.
2. Run the server by executing the command: .\server.exe.
3. Enter the port number and the maximum number of clients when prompted.

Running the Client

1. Open a terminal and navigate to the directory containing the client executable.
2. Run the client by executing the command: .\client.exe.
3. Enter the server's IP address, port number, and your desired username when prompted.
4. Start sending messages or use the available commands.

Commands

Client Commands

• $register: Register your username with the server.
• $exit: Disconnect from the server.
• $getlist: Retrieve a list of connected users.
• $getlog: (Future implementation) Retrieve the server log.

Server Commands

• The server primarily responds to commands sent by the clients and manages connections accordingly.

File Structure

• program.cpp: Contains the main function that allows users to choose between running the server or client.
• clientside.cpp: Contains the implementation for the client's functionality, including connecting to the server and handling user input.
• serverside.cpp: Contains the implementation for the server's functionality, including accepting client connections and handling client requests.

Future Improvements

• Implement logging functionality on the server side to handle the $getlog command.
• Add more robust error handling and input validation.
• Extend the client to support more complex commands and interactions.

Contributing

If you would like to contribute to this project, please fork the repository and submit a pull request. Any contributions, such as bug fixes or new features, are welcome.