IRC Basics for Beginners

What is IRC?

Internet Relay Chat (IRC) is a real-time text messaging system that allows people from around the world to communicate in channels (chat rooms) or privately.

Key Concepts

Channels

• Channels start with # (e.g., #help, #chat)
• Topic: Each channel has a topic describing its purpose
• Operators: Users with special privileges to moderate the channel

Users

• Nickname: Your identity on IRC (e.g., JohnDoe)
• Username: Your registered username (if you have one)
• Hostmask: Your unique identifier showing nickname!username@hostname

Commands

• Commands start with / (e.g., /join #channel, /msg nickname message)
• Type /help in your client for available commands

Basic Etiquette

1. Read the topic when joining a channel
2. Be respectful to other users
3. Stay on topic for the channel
4. Don't flood (send too many messages quickly)
5. Ask permission before private messaging someone

Getting Help

Join #help for assistance with IRC or Undernet-specific questions.