Advantages of Implementing Socket.IO and Node.js:
Reduced Latency: Socket.IO allows for a faster, real-time bi-directional event-based communication, significantly reducing latency compared to the AJAX polling method.
Scalability: A Node.js server can handle numerous simultaneous connections more efficiently, ensuring that the chat system remains responsive and stable as user load increases.
Flexibility and Control: With a Node.js server on my VPS, I'd have greater control and flexibility over chat management, customization, and scalability tailored to specific needs.
Implementation Suggestion:
Socket.IO Integration: Replace the AJAX communication layer with Socket.IO to facilitate real-time, bidirectional, and event-based communication.
Node.js Server Support: Provide documentation for setting up Node.js server