How do I register a channel?

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Updated Feb 08, 2026
Channel ChanServ Register

Creating & Registering Channels

A person who joins an empty and unregistered channel is granted temporary Operator status. They need to REGISTER the channel with ChanServ to gain ownership.

Be identified

You will need to be identified to NickServ.

Pick a name

Choose a channel name that is descriptive and has no spaces or commas.

Check availability

/msg ChanServ INFO #channelname

If registered, ChanServ shows details. Otherwise: Channel #channelname isn't registered.

Join the channel

/join #channelname

If empty and unregistered, you get temporary Operator status (@).

Register with ChanServ

/msg ChanServ REGISTER #channelname Description of Channel

Note: Registration is case-sensitive.

Troubleshooting

  • If you don't get op but already registered: /msg ChanServ OP #channel
  • If people are already in the channel, ask them to leave or pick a new name
  • If registered by someone else but inactive, it may be subject to expiry
  • Ask staff in #Help or #IRC4Fun

Setting up permissions

Give operators permissions using /msg ChanServ HELP AOP (also VOP, HOP, SOP, QOP).

Trial new operators temporarily: /msg ChanServ OP #channel nickname

The SECUREOPS setting limits status commands to those with ChanServ flags.

Other settings

See available settings with: /msg ChanServ HELP SET