IRC (Internet Relay Chat)[edit]

IRC is a text-based communication protocol for real-time messaging. It was created in 1988 and remains popular for open-source communities, gaming, and technical support.

Key Concepts[edit]

• Networks: Multiple servers linked together (e.g., Libera.Chat, OFTC)
• Channels: Chat rooms prefixed with # (e.g., #irc)
• Nicknames: Your display name
• Clients: Software to connect (see IRC Clients)

Related Articles[edit]

• IRC Daemons - Server software
• IRC Services - Channel and nickname management
• IRC Tools - Bots, bouncers, and utilities
• IRC Clients - Desktop and web clients