How to Install LeapChat on Ubuntu Server

LeapChat is a powerful open-source web-based chat software that facilitates seamless communication among team members across remote locations. It is equipped with an intuitive interface for group chats, private messaging, and file sharing. In this guide, we will detail the step-by-step installation process of LeapChat on the latest version of Ubuntu Server.

Prerequisites

Before starting the installation, ensure your system meets the following prerequisites:

• Installed Ubuntu Server Latest
• sudo access privileges
• Node.js version 8 or newer
• MongoDB version 3.4 or newer

Step 1: Update System Packages

Start by updating your system packages to the latest versions using the following command:

sudo apt-get update && sudo apt-get upgrade

Step 2: Install Node.js

LeapChat requires Node.js version 8 or above. Use the commands below to add the Node.js repository and install the latest version:

curl -sL https://deb.nodesource.com/setup_14.x | sudo -E bash -
sudo apt-get install -y nodejs

Verify the Node.js installation:

node --version

Step 3: Install MongoDB

LeapChat also requires MongoDB version 3.4 or higher. Install it with:

sudo apt-get install -y mongodb

Once installed, start MongoDB:

sudo systemctl start mongodb

Check MongoDB's status:

sudo systemctl status mongodb

Step 4: Download and Install LeapChat

Follow these steps to install LeapChat:

1. Download LeapChat from the official GitHub releases page.
2. Extract the downloaded archive to a preferred directory, e.g., /var/www/leapchat.
3. Open a terminal and navigate to the LeapChat directory.
4. Install Node.js packages with:

    

   npm install

5. Start the LeapChat server:

    

   npm start

   The server will now run and listen on port 8080.

Step 5: Configure Firewall

To permit external connections, create a firewall rule allowing traffic on port 8080:

sudo ufw allow 8080/tcp

Step 6: Access LeapChat

Open a web browser and go to http://<server-ip>:8080. You will see the LeapChat login page. Create an account if it's your first access. After logging in, you can start creating chat rooms, invite team members, and communicate.

Congratulations on successfully installing LeapChat on your Ubuntu Server!