Various embodiments are directed to message distribution protocols for a group-based communication platform, in which messages exchanged within a plurality of individual communication channels are provided to client devices via a single websocket connection for each client device. The messages are provided together with associated correspondence tags identifying communication channels in which the messages are exchanged, and the client device disseminates those messages for display in appropriate communication-channel-specific display windows based at least in part on the correspondence tags transmitted with the messages.