Design a system for a real-time chat application that can handle millions of concurrent users, with features such as private messaging, group chat, and message history.
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To answer this question, start by outlining the architecture that would support the functionalities and scale mentioned. You would likely talk about using a microservices architecture for scalability and maintainability, utilizing technologies like websockets for real-time bidirectional event-based communication. Mention the use of distributed databases and storage solutions to handle the high volume of messages and user data, as well as data indexing and caching strategies for quick retrieval of message history. Discuss the importance of implementing robust security measures, including end-to-end encryption for private and group messages, to protect user data and privacy. Finally, address how you would ensure the system’s reliability and availability, potentially through load balancing and redundancy, to handle millions of concurrent users. Throughout the answer, focus on demonstrating your knowledge of scalable system design and your ability to balance various requirements and constraints.
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