Getting on IRC
First up, you'll need an IRC client to jump into the fray. You can find one for your operating system of choice below:
Right. Now you've got your brand-spanking new client installed, it's time to point it at the right place. FurNet has been a mainstay of the fandom for years, so that's where LondonFurs call home. You're going to need to fill in a few details first though!
Since the chances are that you're on Windows, we're going to use mIRC for our example screenshots. Whatever client you decide upon, the settings will be the same.
- Nickname: This is what everyone'll know you by. Choose wisely, pilgrim!
- Alternative: What you'll be called if your first choice is taken.
- Name: Your 'real' name that people will see if they /whois you. (It doesn't have to be your real name!)
- Email: Just like above, no need to give your real details.
Now lets add FurNet as a destination. Go to the 'Servers' sub-menu and click 'Add'. That should bring you to something that looks a bit like this:
- Description: Call it FurNet, call it Pineapple Upside Down Cake. Whatever you'll remember.
- IRC Server: This bit needs to say irc.furnet.org
- Port: Just type 6667
Everything else you can leave blank! Hit 'Add' and we're good to go! Click 'OK' and then prod at that lightning bolt looking icon up in the top-left. Welcome to FurNet.
Time to find the place where all the cool kids are hanging out. With some versions of mIRC, you'll be greeted by this screen:
If you do, just type #londonfurs in the box and click 'Join'. If not, never fear, just type /join #londonfurs and hit Enter.
So there you go! That's all there is to it. Say hello, introduce yourself and start making friends!
Need more? For a more in-depth look at IRC commands, take a look at here.
