Here are a few frequently asked questions that relate to Internet Relay Chats (IRC). If you feel something else should be in the FAQ, make a post in the forum, and we will review it.
What is IRC?
IRC is an abbreviation for the Internet Relay Chat. Unlike most other IM programs, IRC supports multi-user chat. It also provides 'real-time' messaging for instant communication. By connecting to an IRC server you can take advantage of the multi-user by joining channels with an unlimited (unless set by channel operators) amount of users. You can talk in the main channel, or you can send someone a private message (query).
Who Created IRC?
Jarkko Oikarinen created IRC in 1988, in his homeland of Finland.
What is the IRC set up?
IRC is a collection of 'Servers'. A Server is a place were users connect, to access the channels/rooms that are used for communication. There are virtually thousands of servers to connect to, with some more popular than others. The more popular the server, the more users that will be available for chat. For example servers such as EFnet, DALnet, and Undernet see upwards to 15000 users at any given time. There is no limit to how many channels can be added to a server, which means you can make your own if you choose, or you can join a pre-existent one.
How do I get on IRC?
The first thing you need to do is have a client. The most popular of IRC clients is mIRC created by Khaled Mardam-Bey. Using clients is your guide to connecting yourself to the IRC servers, which you can then enter the channels of your choice.
Where can I get an IRC client?
Here is a list of a few IRC clients that you can use.
Windows
Mac
Linux/Unix
OS/2
Other Operating Systems
Your best bet would be to do a search on Tucows (
http://www.tucows.com) for clients that will work with your operating system. Just go to their site, select your operating system and search for IRC clients, you should be able to find a client you need.
What server/channel should I connect to?
This is the great thing, its up to you...aah the freedom. You get to choose where you want to start your chatting experience. Most people has a friend already that goes to a certain channel, and also chat there.
What port should I connect to?
Most of the time the server will already be provided for you. Most cases the most popular ports are 6661-6669. A general rule of thumb would be to select 6667 as your port, since it is the most common port.
I'm not sure what channel to join. How can I find a list of all channels? By typing ' /list ' you will initiate a mass collection list of all the channels available on the server. It takes a few minutes till all the channels load.
How do I create my own channel?
Being the first person to enter a channel automatically makes it a channel. Depending on the server, you can make your channel permanent. To do this contact someone from the server, and ask for their policies concerning the addition of your channel.
What is a Channel Operator?
A channel operator is usually the creator of a channel. They are the people with a @ at the top of the list on screen names. These people and their helpers are in charge of making sure the channel stays to their set rules, and to keep out the riff-raff.
I have a + next to my name, what does this mean?
Well, it depends on the channel. In most channels it means nothing but separates you from the list of non-op screen names. Some channels do this to note a friend of the channel operators. Other than that if the channel is set as 'moderate' (+m) this means that nobody can talk but people with @ and + signs. Anyone without cannot speak directly in the channel, but can still speak via querys.
What is a bot?
A bot is another name for robot. Bots are scripts or programs that are run in the channels to help the channel operators protect the channel from numerous things. They are generally run of Shells or servers themselves to ensure that they will be constantly connected to the server. Some servers don't allow bots, so make sure you read the servers policy before trying to load a bot. Failure to do so could lead to the banning of your connection to that server.
What is a netsplit?
Sad but true, IRC has its draw backs, and Netsplits are one of them. Its something that can't be avoided but is not permanent. A netsplit is when a server temporarily disconnects from the other servers, usually caused by connection problems with the server you are connected to, or crowding of a single server. As an example if you are connected to a server and that server splits, you will most likely find yourself seeing other people's quits saying (*.net *.split), or something to that affect. Just be patient and wait for your server to reconnect.
What is a Script?
A script is a modified IRC client. Scripts are enhanced versions of IRC clients, that tailor to a person's needs. Some scripts are set to entertain the users who use them, and the people in the channels. These scripts might contain games, and such. On the other hand someone who values security might have a script that has program add-ons that help secure their computer. There are tons and tons of scripts available to download. Here are some links that might help you.
How can I learn to script?
The best place to start is by using mIRC itself. mIRC provides help files in its program that teaches how to learn the basics to scripting. You can find them in mIRC by going to: Help > Help Files > Then click the following links - Aliases, Popups, Remote, Variables, & Identifiers. Once you learn the basics you can learn to integrate more complicated code.
