| Chatting, in internet speak, is having a conversation in | | | | topics. The orchid group doesn't want to be in the |
| real time on your computer. Instead of actually hearing | | | | same space as the linux group, and vice-versa. A few |
| other people speaking, you type messages into a | | | | examples of channels are the #unix and #ubuntu |
| "chat" program. Others respond by typing messages, | | | | channels. You can think of a channel as a virtual room |
| enabling conversations between multiple people in real | | | | on the internet. |
| time. Skype is an example of a popular chat program | | | | Chatting on IRC is a great way to meet up with people |
| in use by millions on the internet. | | | | who share similar interests, but a few words of |
| Internet Relay Chat, or IRC, is the granddaddy of chat | | | | caution before you jump into the IRC chat rooms: |
| systems. Developed in Finland during the 1980s, IRC | | | | 1. Guard your privacy. Don't reveal any personal |
| has a huge following and supports millions of | | | | information in a chat room. |
| conversations in real time. If you want to up your nerd | | | | 2. If you are using Windows, it might be a good idea to |
| quotient, then you've got to try out IRC. It's where the | | | | make sure you are using a firewall and an anti-virus |
| real nerds like to hang out, trade information, get and | | | | program. |
| offer support, etc. | | | | 3. Don't chat in ALL CAPS. It's like shouting. |
| IRC features: | | | | 4. Limit the use of color. |
| 1. Allows multiple users to chat at the same time | | | | 5. No swearing. |
| 2. Ability to transfer files | | | | So there it is, the rules of IRC chat. Almost like the |
| 3. Use of a system of groups, called channels | | | | rules on the playground: don't shout, don't talk to |
| 4. Allows users to chat privately | | | | strangers, don't swear! But most importantly, have fun |
| Like Usenet, IRC has a system of channels so that | | | | chatting with your new IRC friends. |
| like-minded people can congregate and discuss similar | | | | |