Internet Relay Chat

From CIT Wiki

Internet Relay Chat (IRC)

IRC is a form of instant communications, like Instant Messenger, but older, and more suited for group discussions. Unfortunately, it is a communications medium that is easily automated and used by "bots," which can include virus infected computers, known as "zombies."

Unlike most other "friendlier" chat applications, IRC doesn't have a single login server, but nearly anyone can create an IRC server, each server capable of hosting many group conversations, or "channels." Popular IRC servers include IRCNet, EFNet, Freenode, and Undernet. For help and information on IRC clients, please see the Wiki article or consult IRChelp.org. There are also clients that work with multiple chat applications, such as Trillian or Gaim for Windows or Adium for Mac, if you like.

Most of the owners of such systems have never heard of IRC, and don't know their computer is making such connections. We maintain a list of systems which are permitted to use IRC; getting youself on the passlist is as simple as making a request with our Help Desk at x58197 or sending email to cit@oberlin.edu More information on Getting IRC to work