Instruction: Describe how middleware is used in Django Channels and the process of creating custom middleware for real-time Django applications.
Context: The candidate should demonstrate understanding of the Django Channels library and how middleware can be utilized to process requests in a WebSocket environment.
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In a Django Channels environment, middleware acts as a customizable layer of logic that processes inbound and outbound messages in WebSocket connections. It's akin to middleware in traditional Django applications that process HTTP requests and responses, but designed to handle asynchronous communication inherent in real-time applications.
To clarify, Django Channels extends Django's capabilities, allowing for handling of WebSockets, chat protocols, IoT protocols, and more, enabling real-time features. Middleware in this context is used to manage the lifecycle of a WebSocket connection, from the moment a connection is established, during message exchange, until the connection is closed....