Build a Full-Fledged Web-Based Code Editor (Like Replit)

Local IDEs are powerful but often heavy, environment-dependent, and not collaborative. Students, developers, and professionals need lightweight, browser-based coding platforms where they can quickly prototype, debug, and share code without setup hassles. Real-time collaboration further enhances pair programming and remote teamwork.

A full-featured online IDE allows users to write, save, compile, and run code snippets instantly. It supports multiple languages (e.g., Python, JavaScript, C++), offers real-time collaborative editing (like Google Docs for code), and lets users create sharable coding projects with cloud storage and simple deployments.

Users sign up, select a language, and get an interactive editor interface. Code is saved automatically or manually. On compile/run, the backend sends code to a secure execution server (sandboxed Docker environments). Output is displayed immediately. Collaboration sessions use WebSocket connections to sync editor states in real-time between users.

• Users choose language/environment and start coding via Monaco/CodeMirror based editors.
• Code is sent to backend execution servers inside Docker containers for isolated running.
• Real-time changes are synchronized using WebSockets (Socket.IO) for collaborative sessions.
• Projects are autosaved and users can fork/share them publicly or privately.
• Premium features like private repositories, custom domains, or multi-file projects can be added later (optional SaaS model).

• Building an Online IDE with Docker (Medium Guide)
• Monaco Editor Official Documentation
• Using WebSockets with Socket.IO
• Code Execution Engine Architecture Explained
• Secure Code Execution with Docker Containers
• Building a SaaS App with Stripe Billing