Internet Relay Chat, or IRC, is one of the most popular chat protocols on the internet. The technology can be connected to the Tor network to create an anonymous and secure chatroom — without the use of public IP addresses.
IRC servers allow one to create and manage rooms, users, and automated functions, among other tools, to administer an instant messaging environment. IRC’s roots began in 1988 when Jarkko Oikarinen decided to attempt to implement a new chat protocol for users at the University of Oulu, Finland. Since then, it’s been widely adopted and used as a lightweight means of communication.
The chat protocol has proven especially popular in tech communities, with channels for software user groups, support and help, and discussion areas for developers and programmers. Its user base eventually expanded to include hackers and security activists, many of whom enjoyed the protocol but found it lacked some aspects of privacy.
Link: How to Host a Deep Web IRC Server for More Anonymous Chatting
via null-byte.wonderhowto.com
Photo by Jessica Sysengrath
