Networks, servers and clients
An IRC network connects people through one or more servers. Your IRC client is the program you use to connect, read messages and send replies. A browser webchat is an IRC client too.
RustNet runs the xircd IRC daemon and in-house network services. Connect through the RustNet webchat or configure your preferred IRC client for irc.rustnet.org with TLS on port 6697.
Nicknames and accounts
Your nickname is the name shown beside your messages. An account is a separate identity used by network services to remember permissions. You do not need an account just to connect to RustNet.
RustNet’s X service handles accounts, protects the matching registered nickname, and stores channel access. Registering and signing in are separate steps from connecting. Other IRC networks can use different service names and commands.
Channels and private conversations
Channel names begin with # on RustNet. Everyone who joins a channel can read messages sent there while they are present. Use /list to request the public channel list, then /join with the channel name. Secret channels are not a public directory.
Use /query nickname in the RustNet webchat to open a private conversation. Check the recipient before sending personal information. The browser client keeps messages in memory for the current session.
/list/join #channel/query nicknameWhat do @ and + mean?
The @ prefix marks a channel operator. The + prefix marks a voiced member. A nickname without a prefix is an ordinary channel member. Status belongs to that particular channel: the same person can have different permissions in another channel.
Operators manage the channel. Voice permits speaking when a channel is moderated. An authenticated account or a service nickname does not automatically imply operator status.
Start with the topic
Read the channel topic and any welcome message before speaking. They often explain the channel’s purpose and rules. Say hello, give people time to reply, and keep questions clear.
In RustNet webchat, messages are plain text unless you begin with a slash command. Use // at the beginning when you want to send a literal leading slash. Use /help for client commands and /msg X HELP for account and channel services.
/help/msg X HELPExamples use placeholders. Copying a command does not send it. Replace placeholders and review the destination before sending.