I designed, deployed, and managed a real-time messaging platform on self-hosted Linux infrastructure. The application runs within a private WireGuard network and exposes the service via Caddy acting as a reverse proxy, which redirects HTTPS traffic from port 443 to the internal server. The deployment encompasses TLS configuration, dynamic DNS, network and firewall rules, proper WebSocket connection handling through the proxy, and remote system administration via SSH.
The backend, built with Node.js and Express, provides an HTTP API and a WebSocket server organized into independent rooms. Each chat utilizes a cryptographically generated token, supports optional access code protection, and features distinct controls for owners and administrators. Features include heartbeats to detect inactive connections, tracking of connected users, and immediate message distribution among all room participants.
Data is stored in SQLite using WAL mode, foreign keys, and specific indexes optimized for message queries, reports, and usage limits. Chats and their messages are automatically deleted after 24 hours to minimize unnecessary data retention. The system also incorporates room creation limits, anonymized fingerprints (via SHA-256 or HMAC with a configurable salt), and an automated error-collection mechanism for HTTP and client-side errors to facilitate service diagnosis and maintenance.
This project integrates backend and frontend development with system administration, private network configuration, secure service exposure, DNS and certificate management, data persistence, and the operation of a self-hosted application.