Beginner's Guide to IRC & IRC4Fun

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What is IRC?

IRC (Internet Relay Chat) is a real-time text messaging protocol that has been around since 1988. It allows people to communicate in channels (group chats) or via private messages. IRC is decentralized and runs on networks — IRC4Fun is one such network.

Channels & Nicknames

On IRC, conversations happen in channels, which are like chat rooms. Channel names start with a # symbol (e.g., #IRC4Fun, #Help). You identify yourself with a nickname (nick), which is the name other users see.

Basic Commands

CommandDescription
/nick YourNickChange your nickname
/join #channelJoin a channel
/part #channelLeave a channel
/msg NickName messageSend a private message
/whois NickNameView information about a user
/quitDisconnect from IRC

Finding Channels

You can find channels on IRC4Fun using:

  • /LIST — Shows all public channels
  • /LIST *keyword* — Search for channels containing a keyword
  • IRC4Fun Channel List & Stats on the website

IRC Etiquette

  • Be respectful and treat others as you would want to be treated
  • Do not spam, flood, or mass-message users
  • Read the channel rules and topic before chatting
  • Do not share personal information in public channels
  • Be patient — people may not respond immediately

For more details, see the IRC4Fun Etiquette page.