Project 9: Django Channels Clone (Real-Time)
Build a real-time layer with WebSockets, channel routing, and pub/sub.
Quick Reference
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Advanced |
| Time Estimate | 2-3 weeks |
| Language | Python |
| Prerequisites | Async basics, ASGI |
| Key Topics | websockets, channel layers, pub/sub |
| Output | Chat demo with groups |
Learning Objectives
By completing this project, you will:
- Accept WebSocket connections under ASGI.
- Route paths to consumer classes.
- Build an in-memory channel layer.
- Broadcast messages to groups.
- Manage connect/receive/disconnect lifecycle.
The Core Question You’re Answering
“How do I build real-time messaging that scales beyond one connection?”
Concepts You Must Understand First
| Concept | Why It Matters | Where to Learn |
|---|---|---|
| WebSocket protocol | Full-duplex communication | MDN WebSockets |
| Channel layers | Message bus abstraction | Channels docs |
| Pub/Sub | Broadcast patterns | Messaging basics |
Project Specification
Functional Requirements
- Implement WebSocket accept/receive/send.
- Route to consumer classes.
- Group add/remove and broadcast.
- Provide a chat demo with multiple clients.
Implementation Guide
Project Structure
project-root/
├── channels_like/
│ ├── app.py
│ ├── routing.py
│ ├── consumers.py
│ └── layer.py
└── demo_chat.py
Questions to Guide Your Design
- How will you store active connections?
- How will you clean up on disconnect?
- How will you handle failed sends?
Testing Strategy
- Two clients receive broadcasts.
- Disconnect removes from groups.
- Invalid messages handled gracefully.
Extensions
- Redis channel layer.
- Presence tracking.
- Private rooms.
This guide was generated from LEARN_DJANGO_WEB_FRAMEWORKS.md. For the complete learning path, see the parent directory LEARN_DJANGO_WEB_FRAMEWORKS/README.md.