Allodatr - Local Data Transfer

ALlodatr LOcal DAta TRansfer is a Python-based application for transferring files and messages between computers on a local network using socket connections.

Features

• Dual Mode Operation: Run as either server or client
• File Transfer: Upload and download files between connected computers
• Message Exchange: Send and receive text messages
• Network Discovery: Automatically discover available connections using a built-in phonebook
• Real-time Progress: Progress indicators for file transfers
• Cross-platform: Works on any system with Python

Requirements

• Python 3.6 or higher
• Network connectivity between machines

Installation

1. Clone or download this repository
2. Ensure Python 3.6+ is installed on your system
3. No additional dependencies required (uses only standard library)

Usage

Starting the Application

python allodatr.py

When prompted, choose your mode:

• Enter y to run as Server (waits for connections)
• Press Enter to run as Client (connects to available servers)

Available Commands

Once connected, you can use the following commands:

• L - Listen: Wait for incoming messages or files
• S - Send: Send a text message to the connected peer
• U - Upload: Send a file to the connected peer
• Q - Quit: Close the connection and exit

Configuration

The application includes a built-in phonebook with common local IP addresses:

• localhost
• 192.168.178.54
• 192.168.0.120
• 192.168.0.118

You can modify the phonebook list in the source code to add your own network addresses.

Network Settings (defaults)

• Default Port: 4110
• Client Timeout: 3 seconds
• Server Timeout: 60 seconds
• Main Timeout: 10 seconds

How It Works

1. Server Mode: Creates a socket server that listens for incoming connections
2. Client Mode: Attempts to connect to known addresses in the phonebook
3. Communication: Uses a simple protocol with headers to distinguish between messages and files
4. File Transfer: Handles large file transfers in chunks with progress indicators

Protocol Details

The application uses a simple binary protocol:

• Header: 1 byte (bit 0: 1 for file, 0 for message)
• Size: 4 bytes (little-endian integer)
• Data: Variable length payload

Security Note

This application is designed for use on trusted local networks only. It does not include encryption or authentication mechanisms.

Troubleshooting

• "No socket found": Ensure the server is running and reachable on the network
• Connection timeouts: Check firewall settings and network connectivity
• Port conflicts: Modify the homeport variable if port 4110 is in use