IRC for Beginners: Cool Computer Stuff

by Andrew W. Chen

Here are some simple commands to use IRC:

First, log on to your CUNIX account. At the dollar sign, type irc

$ irc

Hit return and type this command at the dollar sign:

/nick #(nickname)

Ex: /nick #macky

to create a nickname for yourself on IRC. You can type in any nickname you wish, but your nickname only partially protects your identity. This is because both your nickname and e-mail address will be seen by all participants of a discussion group the first time you join that particular "channel".

Then, type

/join #(the group you want to join)

Ex: /join #Singapore

and start "chatting" to the members of that IRC group.

To get a complete list of IRC groups, you can type /list. However, be prepared to hit the pause/break button because the computer screen will show the entire list of IRC groups that currently exist. Instead of searching through the huge list, just type in the name of your topic, chances are that it will probably be there. After you enter the group, a list of funny looking names will appear on the computer screen. These are other IRC users who are already engaged in IRC discussion about your topic.

If you become bored with the IRC group that you are in (or no one is talking in your group), you can quickly switch to another one.

Type /join #(the new group's name)

and you will instantly be switched into the new one.

You can also interactively talk to a group of friends who attend at different colleges. Just e-mail them these directions and tell them to use IRC at a particular date and time. When they are logged in to IRC, tell them to log on to your own IRC group:

/join #(a wacky name)

Ex: /join #tyekfg

The wacky name will deter other IRC users from straying into your IRC group. Once all your friends enter the group, you can begin chatting with them without paying outrageous long distance telephone rates.

Finally, keep these things in mind when using IRC:

1. Since IRC is closely monitored (and IRC users can see your email address when you first enter), be careful what you say while you are in an IRC group. Never give personal information over IRC (e.g. telephone number, social security number, etc.) If you want to discuss some privately with a friend, it is better to use y-talk instead of IRC.

2. Do not use capital letters when speaking to someone online. Capital letters indicate you are SCREAMING to the other participants, a real net no-no.

3. As in the real world, cursing on IRC can get kicked out or banned from a discussion group.

4. If you are still having problems using IRC, type in /help. This command will give you explanations to all the other special commands available on IRC.

Have fun using Internet Relay Chat!