NodeChat – Secure Offline Realtime LAN Messenger | Electron.js + React.js + Node.js

NodeChat – Secure Offline Realtime Messenger | Electron.js + React.js + Node.js

NodeChat is a secure, standalone desktop chat application built with Electron.js, React, TailwindCSS, and Socket.IO. It allows teams to communicate instantly without internet dependency or complex setup. Designed for office environments, NodeChat runs completely offline within your local network — no servers, no subscriptions, no external databases.

Key Features

• Offline Peer-to-Peer Chat – Works within your LAN using WebSocket technology.
• Cross-Platform Support – Available for Windows, macOS, and Linux.
• User Profiles & Avatars – Each user can personalize their profile and avatar.
• Dark Mode Interface – Modern, distraction-free design with theme customization.
• Instant File Sharing – Transfer images, documents, or any files securely.
• Typing Indicator & Read Receipts – Real-time communication feedback.
• Smart Notifications – In-app, sound, and desktop notifications.
• Local Storage – All data stored locally (messages, avatars, preferences).
• User Presence – Real-time online/offline and activity status tracking.
• Easy Setup – Just npm install and npm run build to get started.
• Status & Availability – Set a custom status message and choose your availability (Online, Offline, Away, etc.) visible to other users.
• Appearance – Personalize the app with your preferred theme and color scheme.
• Emojis – Express your emotions easily with built-in emoji support.

Why Choose NodeChat Over Microsoft Teams?

• No Monthly Costs – One-time purchase, unlimited usage.
• Privacy First – No external servers or cloud dependencies.
• Lightweight – No bloated enterprise features; focuses only on chat essentials.
• Ideal for Small to Medium Offices – Runs entirely within your local network.
• Simple to Maintain – No database setup, no API configuration, no IT team required.

Technical Highlights

• Electron.js for cross-platform desktop builds.
• React + TailwindCSS for smooth UI and easy customization.
• Socket.IO for real-time communication between users.
• Local JSON file storage instead of cloud databases.

How It Works

NodeChat uses WebSocket (Socket.IO) to establish a real-time connection between all users connected to the same local IP network. Once running, every user can instantly send and receive messages or files — even without internet access.

Example:   User A (192.168.0.10) <--> User B (192.168.0.11)   Connected via local Socket.IO server. 

Included in the Package

• Full Electron source code
• Documentation with setup & usage guide
• LICENSE

     Changelog - Version 1.5 (03 January 2025)     --------------------------------------------      - Improved the application performance     - Resolved minor user interface issues 

     Changelog - Version 1.7 (14 February 2026)     --------------------------------------------      - Added new "Network" settings tab to allow configuring the Server IP address directly from the UI.     - Implemented dynamic socket connection keying off the configured Server IP.     - Improved file sharing reliability by including sender ID in file data.     - Fixed an issue where typing indicators might not trigger correctly.     - Refined sidebar styling for better theme consistency. 

NodeChat — Simple. Secure. Offline-Ready.