Abstract
Current messaging applications typically utilize a centralized architecture, meaning allcommunication passes through the app’s server. Consequently, only the company administering the service has access to user data, raising concerns about privacy and control.
Furthermore, blocking communication is straightforward by targeting the server’s IP
address. In this study, we propose leveraging a distributed hash table (DHT) to develop
a serverless mobile chat application as a proof of concept. This novel approach utilizes
the DHT to store and retrieve IP addresses, facilitating peer-to-peer connections for
secure communication. The project uses the library LibP2P as a networking layer. The
findings demonstrate the feasibility and advantages of using DHT and LibP2P to build a
decentralized chat application. The research highlights the benefits of decentralization,
including enhanced privacy, security, and resilience. However, it also identifies key areas
for improvement, particularly in latency, reliability, and scalability compared to traditional client-server architectures. While current limitations within the iOS framework
prevent optimal performance levels, future advancements may bridge this gap. Overall, this research provides a solid foundation for future development in decentralized
communication systems, suggesting a promising alternative to centralized platforms.
The insights gained contribute significantly to the field and pave the way for further
advancements, addressing the growing demand for user privacy and data control.
| Date of Award | 2024 |
|---|---|
| Original language | English (American) |
| Supervisor | Erik Sonnleitner (Supervisor) |