The Book of IRC is, of course, a book about IRC. Its primary intention is to be the most comprehensive, helpful publication on the subject of Internet Relay Chat, whether in print or online. This admittedly ambitious goal is helped, apart from the author's own extensive knowledge of the subject, by the collaboration of some of the finest experts in their fields, including several members of the EFnet and IRCnet #irchelp channels and IRC operators from IRCnet, EFnet and DALnet.

Practically every aspect of modern IRC is a topic for this book. Some are covered in more detail than others but all the basics of selecting a client, participating in and managing channels and running an IRC server are dealt with in a detailed and (I hope) reader-friendly manner. All topics are treated seriously and, if any omissions or errors are detected, corrections will be posted on this site under "Updates."

I'm confident that I have created a book which is helpful, easy to understand and technical enough to satisfy advanced users too. Check out the contents for detailed information about the subject of each chapter - I think you will agree with me that every possible topic is there. In the end, of course, it's up to you to say whether I've succeeded in this and, should you buy it, I'd appreciate your comments - the second edition is already considered a work in progress. Welcome to the home of the Book of IRC.

The author and your host for the next few minutes of your life,

A.C.