Hey everyone, I have a question about the feasibility of allowing direct peer-to-peer connections between users via a website using WebRTC and JavaScript. I'm curious if it's possible for a website to function like a lightweight P2P node, where browsers can connect to each other, verify small data bits, send messages, and maintain a shared state without relying heavily on a traditional server or a large database. I'm not talking about intensive processes like crypto mining, just a scenario where browsers check small proofs or signatures and relay that information. Is this realistic with current WebRTC technology and modern JavaScript, or are there too many limitations that make it unworkable? I'd love to hear if this concept is practical or if it sounds more like a futuristic idea. Thanks!
3 Answers
Given how network traffic operates, I honestly have my doubts about completely removing the server component. Even if you manage the data sharing, you still need some middle server for establishing initial connections.
You're correct; browsers can't just connect without assistance. A signaling step is an absolute requirement. However, some discussions in the Zenon chat suggest that after a tiny initial bootstrap server helps them find peers, communication can be fully P2P through WebRTC. This way, all you have left is a minimal server to facilitate connections rather than a big centralized data hub. But it really depends on whether the underlying protocol was designed to be lightweight from the start. That's what I'm trying to figure out!
Kind of! There are libraries like PeerJS that allow for peer connections but still require a signaling server to establish those connections. WebRTC peers definitely need some form of signaling server to find each other; I don't think a completely serverless setup is possible right now.
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