How do I IDENTIFY myself with NickServ?

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Updated Feb 08, 2026
Cert Identify nickserv SASL

Identifying with NickServ

After registering your nickname, you need to identify each time you connect so NickServ knows it's you.

Method 1: SASL (Recommended — Automatic)

SASL automatically identifies you to NickServ when you connect. This is the recommended method as it identifies you before you join any channels.

Method 2: Server Password

Many IRC clients allow you to set a "server password". Set it to your NickServ password and you will be identified automatically upon connection.

Method 3: Manual IDENTIFY command

/msg NickServ IDENTIFY YourPassword

Or if you have multiple nicknames grouped:

/msg NickServ IDENTIFY YourNick YourPassword

Certificate Fingerprints (CertFP)

You can also use a TLS client certificate to identify without sending a password. After connecting with your certificate:

  1. Identify manually once: /msg NickServ IDENTIFY YourPassword
  2. Add your certificate: /msg NickServ CERT ADD

From now on, NickServ will identify you automatically when you connect with that certificate.