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{{Short description|Use of IRC on Wikimedia}}
{{Redirect|WP:CHAT|the policy concerning the use of Wikipedia as a chat room|WP:FORUM}}
{{Header navbar community}}
{{Wikipedia how-to|WP:CHAT}}
{{notice|This external system is not subject to the [[foundation:Privacy_policy|WMF Privacy Policy]].}}
{{notice|'''Wikimedia IRC has been migrated from [[freenode]] to [[Libera Chat]]. For more information, please see [[meta:IRC/Migrating to Libera Chat]]. References to freenode on this page and others may be out of date.'''}}
{{ mbox
| image = [[File:Imbox_notice.png|40px]]
| text = New to IRC? Please go to [[WP:IRC help disclaimer|the IRC channel]] to reach our online helpers!
}}
{{Warning|To begin using Wikimedia IRC channels, see: [[Wikipedia:IRC/Tutorial|IRC/Tutorial]] and [[m:IRC/Instructions]]. For the related WikiProjects, see:[[Wikipedia:WikiProject IRC|WikiProject IRC]] and [[Wikipedia:WikiProject IRC collaboration|WikiProject IRC collaboration]].}}
The [[Libera Chat]] network has "[[chat rooms]]" dedicated to Wikipedia 24 hours a day, in which Wikipedians can engage in real-time discussions with each other. Many Wikipedians have chatting open in one window and hop back and forth between it and other windows in which they are working on Wikipedia. The chat rooms most relevant to English Wikipedia are [[#List of useful channels|listed hereafter]]; a more complete list of channels (for other language Wikipedias, other languages, and recent changes feeds) exists at [[m:IRC/Channels]].
"Chat room" is a name for an '''[[Internet Relay Chat]]''' ('''IRC''') channel. IRC chat takes place on a network of [[IRCd|servers]]; the network that hosts the Wikimedia channels is known as Libera Chat. To participate in the chat, you need a type of program or plug-in called an '''[[Internet Relay Chat#Clients|IRC client]]'''. Popular clients are listed [[#Accessing IRC|below]].
Use and anonymity on IRC are covered in more detail below. '''''Note that IRC needs more care to maintain anonymity than Wikipedia editing does.''''' Anyone can see your IP until you become cloaked, and the process to become cloaked is not immediate.
== How is Wikipedia IRC related to Wikipedia? ==
Wikipedia IRC is not owned or controlled by Wikipedia/Wikimedia. It is a project run by volunteers of their own accord. The Wikipedia channels on Libera Chat were designed by users of Wikipedia as places for Wikipedians to chat using IRC. They are casual and not logged publicly. As far as their influence on Wikipedia goes, IRC is equivalent to a conversation in a pub – the discussion may be conducted between a small number of people but may be overheard by hundreds, or more if the logs are published.
{{anchor|IRCADMIN}}
{{shortcut|WP:IRCADMIN}}
When the channels are used to attack Wikipedians, or when IRC discussions are cited as justification for an on-wiki action, the resulting atmosphere is very damaging to the project's collaborative relationships.
== IRC tutorial and host masking ==
{{main|Wikipedia:IRC/Tutorial}}
=== Register your nickname ===
If you want to use a certain nickname on the network and don't want anyone else to take it, and also to be added to a channel's access list, you must register your nickname with the network. You can do so by typing (in any window): <code>/msg nickserv register <font color="purple">password</font> <font color="darkgreen">[email protected]</font></code>, of course substituting <code><font color="purple">password</font></code> for any password of your choosing, and <code><font color="darkgreen">[email protected]</font></code> with your email address. Follow the steps (including clicking a confirmation link in an email). Then configure your IRC client to send an identify message upon login, such as <code>/msg nickserv identify <font color="purple">password</font></code>.
=== Anonymity and masking ===
{{Main|meta:IRC/Cloaks}}
As on Wikipedia itself, you can use IRC with a name that hides your [[IP address]], and allows you to remember your preferred settings. If you have any special access rights to any channel, those will be remembered under your name too. On IRC these are two separate matters – '''registering''' a nickname is quick and easy (like on Wikipedia itself), and that name is then password protected for your own use, and '''cloaking''' is the request to have the account configured to hide its IP address from other users. These matters are all covered in the [[Wikipedia:IRC/Tutorial|IRC tutorial]].
To request that your IRC account be cloaked, send the following private message: <code> '''/msg wmopbot cloak'''</code>. [[m:IRC/Group Contacts|Group Contacts]] then process these by hand. ''Cloaking is optional, but a good idea.''
The following are the requirements necessary to obtain a cloak:
* User must have a verified e-mail address ([[Disposable email address|throwaway/disposable]] emails are not acceptable)
* User must have at least 250 edits on Wikimedia projects
* User must have a Wikimedia project account registered for at least three months
* User must not be actively blocked from a project
Note that anonymity is maintained with more difficulty on IRC than on Wikipedia. Without a [[m:IRC/Cloaks|hostmask]], your IP address will be visible, and indexed on some Internet websites. Even with a hostmask, your IP address is at risk to be revealed due to the nature of the IRC protocol (due to the effects of a "ghost" session). If you are concerned about your anonymity, you may wish to consult with someone familiar with IRC.
Another straightforward way of guaranteeing anonymity on IRC (and elsewhere) is to subscribe with a [[Virtual private network|VPN]] service provider. This will re-route all your [[Internet]] traffic and effectively replace your IP address with the service providers.
Alternatively, [[Tor (anonymity network)|Tor]] may be used to connect. Libera Chat provides an onion service under <code>libera75jm6of4wxpxt4aynol3xjmbtxgfyjpu34ss4d7r7q2v5zrpyd.onion</code> but authentication using [[Simple Authentication and Security Layer|SASL EXTERNAL]] or [[ECDSA|ECDSA-NIST256P-CHALLENGE]] is mandatory. Tor access to the [[Clearnet (networking)|''clearnet'']] domain (<code>irc.libera.chat</code>) is blocked.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://libera.chat/guides/connect#accessing-liberachat-via-tor |title=Connecting to Libera.Chat - Accessing Libera.Chat Via Tor |access-date=13 July 2021}}</ref>
==== Publicly logged channels ====
There are several Wikimedia channels which are purposefully logged. Some of them are listed here:
* {{irc|wikidata}} (logged by [[meta:WM-Bot|wm-bot]])
* {{irc|wikimedia-labs}} (logged by [[meta:WM-Bot|wm-bot]])
* {{irc|wikimedia-mobile}} (logged by [[meta:WM-Bot|wm-bot]])
* {{irc|wikimedia-toolserver}} (logged by [[meta:WM-Bot|wm-bot]])
* {{irc|wikimedia-operations}} (logged by [[meta:WM-Bot|wm-bot]])
* {{irc|wikimedia-tech}} (logged by [[meta:WM-Bot|wm-bot]])
* {{irc|wikimedia-dev}} (logged by [[meta:WM-Bot|wm-bot]])
* {{irc|mediawiki}} (logged by [[meta:WM-Bot|wm-bot]])
* {{irc|wikimedia-office}} (publicly logged when a scheduled staff discussion is happening)
=== List of applications and web clients ===
{{shortcut|WP:IRCCLIENT|WP:IRCHOW}}
Most people needing [[Wikipedia:IRC/wikipedia-en-help|live help editing Wikipedia]] can access IRC easily by clicking here: {{irc|wikipedia-en-help}}. Web-based IRC is a good choice for first-time IRC users, for portable use, and for those who cannot, or prefer not to, [[Installation (computer programs)|install]] separate [[software]].
The usual way to access IRC is by downloading an [[Internet Relay Chat#Clients|IRC client]]. These are more full-featured and make it easy to watch multiple chats at a time. [[Internet Relay Chat script|Scripts]] to enhance IRC clients are available online at [[Wikipedia:Scripts]]. From the [[Comparison of Internet Relay Chat clients|long list of IRC clients]], some popular options are:
{{Wikipedia:IRC/Clients}}
==== IRC error: Unable to join channel (invite only) ====
This error occurs when you attempt to join a non-public channel (see [[#Non-public channels|non-public channels]], below). If you know that you have access to a non-public channel and you still receive this error, the simplest fix is to ask ChanServ for an invite (see '''/msg ChanServ help invite''' for more info). If you have a cloak, you can ask a channel op to add an invex (+I) on your cloak so that you do not need to ask ChanServ for invites each time you need to join the channel.
If, however, you know you both have access to the non-public channel ''and'' you know that you have an invex (+I) on your cloak for that channel, your client might be automatically joining the channel before authenticating. Double-check to make sure your client is set up according to Libera Chat's [https://libera.chat/guides/connect connection guide], and configure your client to [https://libera.chat/guides/registration#logging-in log in when you connect].
=== Use of IRC ===
Once you are connected to the Libera Chat IRC network, you can choose which public channels you join and which chats you engage in. If you are authorized to join non-public channels then you can take part in those too. Consider also [[#Anonymity and masking|requesting a cloak]] to mask your IP address and give other users confidence that you are the Wikipedia user you claim to be.
In general on IRC, each channel operates autonomously and each has its own norms and policies—these may cover conduct (including civility, appropriate topics, and language), on/off-topic chat, who may join, and who may be asked to leave. Each channel is autonomous and in general there is no appeal from a decision by the operators of that channel to an outside body (which may have any or no reason), so it is worth checking the channel norms and rules before accidentally making a mistake of conduct. '''That said, in general most channels used by Wikimedia communities are friendly and do have people you can contact in case of problems.''' (See [[#Problems and help|problems and help]] below.)
Once connected, some users stay logged-in to the chatrooms whenever they are on Wikipedia, and check in on the discussions from time to time, to read what has been accumulating there and to participate. Some programs used for chatting notify you whenever there is activity in a chat room so you will not miss anything. Often, users jump onto a chat room to draw the attention of others there of something on Wikipedia that needs attention.
=== Non-public channels ===
{{further|Wikipedia:IRC/Channel access and configuration guide}}
A number of non-public channels exist, to which access is limited. The best known of these on English Wikipedia is the administrators' channel, but others exist also for groups such as the [[WP:ARBCOM|arbitration committee]], [[Wikipedia:CheckUser|checkuser]] and [[WP:Account creator|account creator]] collaboration. Access to these channels requires use of a registered account, described previously. If you are part of a given group that has a non-public channel, you can request access so that you can join.
Steps to getting access to non-public channels:
# '''Request it''' — Post a new request under [[#Pending requests for access to channels|pending requests for access]], at the end of this page, providing your registered IRC account and links evidencing access.
# '''Get it''' — A channel operator will then drop by to give you access to the channel. Alternatively, ask in #wikimedia-ops, using the <tt>!ops</tt> keyword to get attention.
# '''Use it''' — Once your request is complete, you can invite yourself to the channel using ChanServ's INVITE command as long as you've identified to NickServ. (See {{nowrap|'''<tt>/msg NickServ HELP IDENTIFY</tt>'''}} and {{nowrap|'''<tt>/msg ChanServ HELP INVITE</tt>'''}} for more information.)
# <i>(Optional)</i> In order to gain ''automatic'' access to a non-public channel (i.e. without having to use the ChanServ's <tt>INVITE</tt> command each time), you should first [[#Anonymity and masking|obtain a cloak]]. From there, simply ask an {{abbr|op|operator}} on the channel to add an invex (+I) for your cloak. If you already have a cloak when requesting access, ops will typically add an invex for you at the same time they're giving you access, but if you obtain a cloak ''after'' gaining access or you change your cloak after gaining access, you can typically reach the channel's ops by using either the <tt>!ops</tt> keyword or requesting assistance in #wikimedia-ops.
The [[meta:IRC/Instructions|IRC instructions]] page may also be helpful for getting around.
== List of useful channels ==
: ''Non-public channels listed with a blue padlock icon ([[File:Padlock-blue.svg|15px]]) require additional user access in order to join them. See [[#Non-public channels|non-public channels]] and [[#Pending requests for access to channels|pending requests for access]] for more information. See [[meta:IRC/Channels]] for a more extensive list. ''
=== General channels ===
The main general-purpose channels relevant and related to English Wikipedia are:
{| class="wikitable" border="1"
|-
! Channel
! Description
|-
| {{IRC|wikipedia}}
| General Wikipedia related chat.
|-
| {{IRC|wikipedia-en}}
| General chat focusing more on the '''English-language Wikipedia'''.
|-
| {{IRC|wikipedia-en-help}}
| Help channel for [[WP:Wikipedians|Wikipedians]]. Helpers are voiced, a setting that lets what they say be seen by everyone in the channel. Request a [[meta:IRC/Cloaks|cloak]] to be voiced automatically (if you have autovoice on your account already, [[Wikipedia:IRC/Tutorial|identify to NickServ]] by typing <tt>/msg NickServ identify <nick> <password></tt> to activate it). More information can be found on [[Wikipedia:IRC/wikipedia-en-help|its page]].
|-
| {{IRC|wikipedia-en-blp}}
| On-topic discussion of [[WP:BLP|Biographies of living persons]] (BLP) related issues and actions to be taken. Receives bot feed of various BLP-related pages.
|}
=== User groups ===
==== Functional groups ====
{| class="wikitable" border="1"
|-
! Channel
! Description
|-
| {{IRC|wikipedia-en-admins}} [[File:Padlock-blue.svg|15px]]
| Used by [[Wikipedia:Administrators|admins]] and some other users. I.e.: [[Special:GlobalUsers/steward|stewards]] and [[Special:GlobalUsers/Staff|Wikimedia Foundation staff]]. (See [[##wikipedia-en-admins|''#wikipedia-en-admins'' below]] for more information.)
|-
| {{IRC|wikipedia-en-functionaries}} [[File:Padlock-blue.svg|15px]]
| Used by English Wikipedia [[WP:FUNK|functionaries]] and global [[m:S|stewards]].
|-
| {{IRC|wikipedia-en-arbcom-clerks}} [[File:Padlock-blue.svg|15px]]
| Used by [[WP:AC/C|clerks]] and [[WP:AC/M|members]] of the [[WP:AC|Arbitration Committee]].
|-
| {{IRC|wikimedia-admin}} [[File:Padlock-blue.svg|15px]]
| Used by [[Wikipedia:Administrators|admins]] across all Wikimedia projects for cross-wiki admin co-ordination. (See [[m:IRC/wikimedia-admin|the page ''IRC/wikimedia-admin'' on Meta-Wiki]] for more information.)
|-
| {{IRC|wikipedia-en-BAG}}
| Used by the [[Wikipedia:Bot Approvals Group|'''B'''ot '''A'''pprovals '''G'''roup]] for coordination and discussion/monitoring of [[Wikipedia:Bots/Requests for approval]]. BAG members are voiced (i.e. typically shown in IRC clients by a "+" next to their nickname); anybody is welcome.
|-
| {{IRC|wikipedia-mediation}} [[File:Padlock-blue.svg|15px]]
| Used by the [[Wikipedia:MEDCOM|Mediation Committee]].
|-
| {{IRC|wikimedia-otrs}}
| A public channel for matters related to the [[Wikipedia:Volunteer Response Team|Volunteer Response Team]] and its volunteers. '''This channel is for co-ordination and collaboration, and to find an OTRS user to speak in private; it is <u>not</u> suitable for confidential discussion.''' [[m:VRT/Personnel|OTRS agents]] are voiced (i.e. typically shown in IRC clients by a "+" next to their nickname).
|-
| {{IRC|wikiSignpost}}
| For discussion amongst [[WP:POST|''Signpost'']] editors.
|-
| {{IRC|wikipedia-en-editfilters}} [[File:Padlock-blue.svg|15px]]
| Used by [[WP:EFH|edit filter helpers]], [[WP:EFM|edit filter managers]], and [[WP:ADMIN|administrators]] for private discussion relating to edit filters. '''Invite only channel'''. Use <code>/msg ChanServ invite #wikipedia-en-editfilters</code> if you are already in the admins channel, and you can then join.
|-
|}
=== Social channels ===
{| class="wikitable" border="1"
|-
! Channel
! Description
|-
| {{IRC|wikimedia-social}}
| A channel intended primarily for social discussion among contributors to Wikimedia projects.
|-
|{{IRC|Wikimedia-offtopic}}
|A semi-social channel for conversations that don't really fit into the other Wikimedia project channels.
|-
|{{IRC|Wikipedia-coffeehouse}}
|A place for relaxing, intellectual on-topic chat related to Wikipedia and other associated topics.
|-
| {{IRC|wikipedia-politics}}
| A channel to discuss politics.
|-
| {{IRC|wikipedia-trivia}}
| A fun channel with trivia for both new and veteran editors to polish their Wikipedia knowledge.
|}
=== Channels for specific tasks ===
{| class="wikitable" border="1"
|-
! Channel
! Description
|-
| {{IRC|wikipedia-en-unblock}}
| For the discussion and review of blocks and features live updates of [[CAT:UNBLOCK]]. [[WP:ADMIN|Administrators]] are voiced (i.e. typically shown in IRC clients by a "+" next to their nickname). Not recommended for idling.
|-
| {{IRC|wikipedia-en-accounts}} [[File:Padlock-blue.svg|15px]]
| Used for coordination and collaboration between members of the [[Wikipedia:Request an account|account creation]] team. This channel is invite only (+i).
|-
| {{IRC|wikipedia-en-accounts-admins}} [[File:Padlock-blue.svg|15px]]
| Used for coordination and collaboration between administrators of the [[Wikipedia:Request an account|account creation]] team. This channel is invite only (+i).
|-
| {{IRC|countervandalism}}
| For requesting voice in restricted channels and technical help running a countervandalism channel. See [[m:CVN]] for details about the CounterVandalism Network.
|-
| {{IRC|cvn-wp-en}}
| For listing and discussing current English Wikipedia [[Wikipedia:Vandalism|vandalism]] issues (requires [[User:Pathoschild/Verifications|confirmation]]).
|-
| {{IRC|cvn-wp-en-newpages}}
| For listing new page creations on English Wikipedia that contain possible vandalism.
|-
| {{IRC|wikipedia-en-spam}}
| A botfeed of all links added to English Wikipedia. Channel is for linkspam reverting. Feeds for other languages and projects also now exist.
|-
| {{IRC|wikipedia-spam-t}}
| Talk channel associated with {{IRC|wikipedia-en-spam}}.
|-
| {{IRC|wikipedia-en-csd}}
| For listing edits that add a [[WP:CSD|speedy deletion]] tag.
|-
| {{IRC|wikipedia-en-abuse-log}}
| For listing recent edits that have tripped the [[wp:edit filter|edit filter]], as specified in [[User:DatBot/filters]].
|-
| {{IRC|wikipedia-en-abuse-log-all}}
| A feed of all [[WP:EF|edit filter]] hits. You can subscribe to get direct messages when specific filters are tripped. See [[User:MusikBot/AbuseFilterIRC]] for documentation.
|-
| {{IRC|wikipedia-en-revdel}}
| For sending urgent [[Wikipedia:Revision deletion|revision deletion]] requests to administrators. [[WP:ADMIN|Administrators]] are opped (i.e. typically shown in IRC clients by a "@" next to their nickname) and are the only ones able to see requests.
|-
| {{IRC|wikimedia-npp}}
| General discussion regarding [[WP:NPP|new page patrolling]].
|-
| {{IRC|wikipedia-en-spi}}
| Public channel for coordination among [[WP:SPI|sockpuppet investigation]] [[WP:SPI/C|clerks]] and other users.
|-
|}
=== WikiProjects ===
{| class="wikitable" border="1"
|-
! Channel
! Description
|-
| {{IRC|wikiproject}}
| For [[Wikipedia:WikiProject|WikiProject]] coordination and collaboration.
|-
| {{IRC|wikipedia-en-afc}}
| Used by the [[Wikipedia:AFC|AFC project]] to discuss the backlog, administrative changes (especially to our [[WP:AFCH|helper script]]) and other related tasks.
|-
| {{IRC|wikipedia-en-ambassadors}}
| Coordination and collaboration for members of the Wikipedia Ambassadors Team (part of WikiProject: Public Policy).
|-
| {{IRC|wikipedia-ark}}
| For [[Wikipedia:WikiProject Arkansas|WikiProject Arkansas]]. (Not very active.)
|-
| {{IRC|wikichem}}
| For [[Wikipedia:WikiProject Chemistry|WikiProject Chemistry]]. Channel is open at all hours, regular meetings are scheduled every Tuesday, 16:00 [[GMT]]. [[Wikipedia:WikiProject Chemistry/IRC Discussions|Agenda, minutes, and logs are posted here.]]
|-
| {{IRC|wikimedia-lgbt}}
| Used by [[Wikipedia:WikiProject LGBT studies|WikiProject LGBT studies]] for cross-project coordination, collaboration and socialization.
|-
| {{IRC|wikiphys}}
| For [[Wikipedia:WikiProject Physics|WikiProject Physics]].
|-
| {{IRC|wikipedia-en-roads}}
| For [[Wikipedia:WikiProject Highways|WikiProject Highways]] coordination and collaboration. Retired in favor of [[WP:DISCORD]].
|-
| {{IRC|wikipedia-en-sports}}
| For coordination and collaboration among the various sports wikiprojects.
|-
| {{IRC|wikipedia-teahouse}}
| Used for discussion on the [[WP:TH|''Teahouse'']] by guests and hosts.
|-
| {{IRC|wptcg}}
| For the [[Wikipedia:Trading card game]] development team.
|-
| {{IRC|wiki-hurricanes}}
| For [[Wikipedia:WikiProject Tropical cyclones|WikiProject Tropical cyclones]].
|-
| {{IRC|wikipedia-1.0}}
| For the [[Wikipedia:Version 1.0 Editorial Team|Version 1.0 Editorial Team]].
|-
| {{IRC|WikiProject-United-States}}
| For [[Wikipedia:WikiProject United States|WikiProject United States]] and related projects and topics.
|-
| {{IRC|wikipedia-library}}
| Used for discussion on [[WP:TWL|The Wikipedia Library]] by coordinators and guests.
|-
| {{IRC|wikipedia-medicine}}
| Used for discussion and coordination with [[WP:MED|WikiProject Medicine]] and related projects and topics.
|-
| {{IRC|wikipedia-en-appleinc}}
| General Apple Inc. and related WikiProjects discussion
|-
| {{IRC|wikipedia-en-openproxies}}
| Discussion and coordination related to the [[WP:WPOP|WikiProject on open proxies]]
|}
=== Technical channels, and technical support for tools ===
==== Technical ====
{| class="wikitable" border="1"
|-
! Channel
! Description
|-
| {{IRC|wikimedia-tech}}
| Technical issues related to the Wikimedia systems.
|-
| {{IRC|mediawiki}}
| Discussion and technical questions related to the [[MediaWiki]] [[software]] (including template help, and other questions).
|}
==== Tools, and support for tools ====
{| class="wikitable" border="1"
|-
! Channel
! Description
|-
| {{IRC|AutoWikiBrowser}}
| General discussion and support requests for [[WP:AWB|AutoWikiBrowser]].
|-
| {{IRC|huggle}}
| Support for the tool [[WP:HG|Huggle]].
|-
| {{IRC|swviewer}}
| Support for the tool [[WP:SWViewer|SWViewer]].
|-
| {{IRC|wikipedia-userscripts}}
| Help and discussion of JavaScript tools.
|}
== #wikipedia-en-admins ==
{{Shortcut|WP:WEA}}
All current and former English Wikipedia administrators in good standing have a presumption of entry to this channel, subject to appropriate conduct. [[m:Stewards|Stewards]] and people who currently work for the Foundation are allowed access, too. Access to this channel is set to ''invite only'' (+i). Administrators who want to join this channel have to request access to this channel before being able to join the first time. [[#Pending requests for access to channels|Access can be requested hereafter.]]
Once an editor is granted access, they retain it unless they are involuntarily de-sysopped or request removal of access to the channel. Formal access to the channel will not usually be long-term revoked unless a participant refuses to abide by the standards of conduct expected of channel members or unless the user is involuntarily de-sysopped. If a user is theoretically unable to ask for and receive their administrator rights from the [[Wikipedia:Bureaucrats' noticeboard|Bureaucrats' noticeboard]], they will not be permitted access to the channel.
The channel has [[m:IRC/wikipedia-en-admins/Guidelines|an internal code of conduct and newcomer information]]. These guidelines set out some "anti-abuse" provisions that consensus agrees the channel operators may draw on, if they are notified of a problem. However, as with all guidelines, they are intended to be for the benefit of the project, with common sense, and not "set in stone".
[[m:IRC/wikipedia-en-admins|IRC/wikipedia-en-admins]] on Meta has more details, including a list of all users who have access to the channel. See also [[Wikipedia:List of administrators/IRC nicknames]].
== Help ==
=== Problems and help ===
Help for accessing IRC itself is best requested on the [[WT:IRC|talk page]], if you have read the tutorial and other information and are still unable to use it. Once you can access IRC by some means, there are help and information channels on most Wikimedia-related topics listed above, type '''<tt>/join #channelname</tt>''' into any window, to join them and ask your question (e.g., '''<tt>/join #wikipedia-en-help</tt>'''). It is customary on IRC to just ''ask'', not to ask whether you can ask. :-)
Within the Wikimedia and English Wikipedia channels, your first recourse if you have difficulty, is to ask to speak to a channel operator, if any are around. You can identify channel operators in most of these channels since they will appear as having the "o" flag in a list of channel users and flags. Type '''<tt>/msg chanserv flags #channelname</tt>''' for a list of users and their access levels (this can sometimes have hundreds of lines). Further help can be obtained as follows:
:* '''<tt>#wikipedia-en</tt>''': Ask to speak to a channel operator. If needed, you can often address such problems to administrators who are IRC users. (Please see the userlist of <tt>#wikipedia-en-admins</tt> for information.)
:* '''<tt>#wikipedia-en-admins</tt>''' (the non-public admins channel): Has adopted its own code of conduct that covers problematic situations; please see that channel's guidelines and user information above, for relevant links and userlists.
:* '''All other <tt>#wiki...</tt> channels''': Speak to a channel operator for that channel.
:* Beyond that, the Wikimedia channels are supervised by the [[:m:IRC/Group Contacts|IRC Group Contacts]]—currently [[:m:User:Dungodung|Dungodung]] (<tt>dungodung</tt> on IRC), [[:m:User:Snowolf|Snowolf]] (<tt>Snowolf</tt> on IRC), [[:m:User:Az1568|Az1568]] (<tt>AlexZ</tt> on IRC), and [[:m:User:Fox|Fox]] (<tt>foks</tt> on IRC)—who can advise on serious problems that channel operators cannot resolve.
''If the problem relates to user conduct in any channel'', your first recourse should be to try and resolve matters with the person involved. If this fails, ask to speak to a channel operator. If your problem cannot be resolved by channel operators, then it may be raised further, as previously mentioned.
: '''It is the policy of some channels that you should not post logs on the wiki, or circulate them without permission from those involved'''; rather, if a matter requires logs then please obtain permission before circulating or publicizing them, and if in doubt ask a channel operator or other experienced user for advice.
{{/Access requests}}
== See also ==
=== Information ===
* [[Wikipedia:IRC/Channel access and configuration guide]] – how channel access works on Libera Chat IRC
* [[Wikipedia:IRC/Tutorial]]
* [[Wikipedia:IRC/wikipedia-en-help]] – the primary channel for editors seeking help on using and editing the English Wikipedia
* [[m:IRC]] – information page on Meta-Wiki (not to be confused with [[mIRC]], an IRC client)
* [[m:IRC/Channels]] – main list
* [[m:IRC/Cloaks]] – provides information about obtaining a hostmask cloak
* [[m:IRC/wikipedia-en-admins/User list#Operators]] – list of channel ops for #wikipedia-en-admins
=== Tools ===
* [[Wikipedia:Huggle]] – Cross-platform application that allows users to watch recent changes, and automates many vandal-fighting tasks
* [[Wikipedia:Scripts#IRC channel scripts]]
=== User essays ===
* [[:Category:User essays on IRC]] – other opinions on these IRC channels and their use by Wikipedians
* [[Wikipedia:IRC/Personal views regarding IRC]] – written by members of the arbitration committee in January 2007
=== Quotes ===
* [[m:IRC/Quotes]] ([[m:BASH]]) – a collection of humorous IRC quotes, posted only with consent from the quotee
* [[m:IRC/wikipedia-fr/extraits choisis|French quotes]]
* [http://toolserver.org/~soxred93/bash/ m:BASH quote generator] – X!'s tools, get quotes from the IRC Quote Database
=== Other discussion venues ===
* [[Wikipedia:External discussion]]
* [[Wikipedia:Mailing lists]]
* [[Wikipedia:Off-wiki policy discussion]]
* [[Wikipedia:Discord]] (text and voice chat)
* [[Wikipedia:Mumble]] (voice chat, defunct)
* [[meta:Matrix.org]]
== References ==
{{reflist}}
== External links ==
* [https://libera.chat/ Libera Chat website]
{{Help navigation}}
{{Wikipedia technical help|collapsed}}
[[Category:Wikipedia help forums|IRC]]
[[Category:Wikipedia tools|IRC]]
{{Redirect|WP:CHAT|the policy concerning the use of Wikipedia as a chat room|WP:FORUM}}
{{Header navbar community}}
{{Wikipedia how-to|WP:CHAT}}
{{notice|This external system is not subject to the [[foundation:Privacy_policy|WMF Privacy Policy]].}}
{{notice|'''Wikimedia IRC has been migrated from [[freenode]] to [[Libera Chat]]. For more information, please see [[meta:IRC/Migrating to Libera Chat]]. References to freenode on this page and others may be out of date.'''}}
{{ mbox
| image = [[File:Imbox_notice.png|40px]]
| text = New to IRC? Please go to [[WP:IRC help disclaimer|the IRC channel]] to reach our online helpers!
}}
{{Warning|To begin using Wikimedia IRC channels, see: [[Wikipedia:IRC/Tutorial|IRC/Tutorial]] and [[m:IRC/Instructions]]. For the related WikiProjects, see:[[Wikipedia:WikiProject IRC|WikiProject IRC]] and [[Wikipedia:WikiProject IRC collaboration|WikiProject IRC collaboration]].}}
The [[Libera Chat]] network has "[[chat rooms]]" dedicated to Wikipedia 24 hours a day, in which Wikipedians can engage in real-time discussions with each other. Many Wikipedians have chatting open in one window and hop back and forth between it and other windows in which they are working on Wikipedia. The chat rooms most relevant to English Wikipedia are [[#List of useful channels|listed hereafter]]; a more complete list of channels (for other language Wikipedias, other languages, and recent changes feeds) exists at [[m:IRC/Channels]].
"Chat room" is a name for an '''[[Internet Relay Chat]]''' ('''IRC''') channel. IRC chat takes place on a network of [[IRCd|servers]]; the network that hosts the Wikimedia channels is known as Libera Chat. To participate in the chat, you need a type of program or plug-in called an '''[[Internet Relay Chat#Clients|IRC client]]'''. Popular clients are listed [[#Accessing IRC|below]].
Use and anonymity on IRC are covered in more detail below. '''''Note that IRC needs more care to maintain anonymity than Wikipedia editing does.''''' Anyone can see your IP until you become cloaked, and the process to become cloaked is not immediate.
== How is Wikipedia IRC related to Wikipedia? ==
Wikipedia IRC is not owned or controlled by Wikipedia/Wikimedia. It is a project run by volunteers of their own accord. The Wikipedia channels on Libera Chat were designed by users of Wikipedia as places for Wikipedians to chat using IRC. They are casual and not logged publicly. As far as their influence on Wikipedia goes, IRC is equivalent to a conversation in a pub – the discussion may be conducted between a small number of people but may be overheard by hundreds, or more if the logs are published.
{{anchor|IRCADMIN}}
{{shortcut|WP:IRCADMIN}}
When the channels are used to attack Wikipedians, or when IRC discussions are cited as justification for an on-wiki action, the resulting atmosphere is very damaging to the project's collaborative relationships.
== IRC tutorial and host masking ==
{{main|Wikipedia:IRC/Tutorial}}
=== Register your nickname ===
If you want to use a certain nickname on the network and don't want anyone else to take it, and also to be added to a channel's access list, you must register your nickname with the network. You can do so by typing (in any window): <code>/msg nickserv register <font color="purple">password</font> <font color="darkgreen">[email protected]</font></code>, of course substituting <code><font color="purple">password</font></code> for any password of your choosing, and <code><font color="darkgreen">[email protected]</font></code> with your email address. Follow the steps (including clicking a confirmation link in an email). Then configure your IRC client to send an identify message upon login, such as <code>/msg nickserv identify <font color="purple">password</font></code>.
=== Anonymity and masking ===
{{Main|meta:IRC/Cloaks}}
As on Wikipedia itself, you can use IRC with a name that hides your [[IP address]], and allows you to remember your preferred settings. If you have any special access rights to any channel, those will be remembered under your name too. On IRC these are two separate matters – '''registering''' a nickname is quick and easy (like on Wikipedia itself), and that name is then password protected for your own use, and '''cloaking''' is the request to have the account configured to hide its IP address from other users. These matters are all covered in the [[Wikipedia:IRC/Tutorial|IRC tutorial]].
To request that your IRC account be cloaked, send the following private message: <code> '''/msg wmopbot cloak'''</code>. [[m:IRC/Group Contacts|Group Contacts]] then process these by hand. ''Cloaking is optional, but a good idea.''
The following are the requirements necessary to obtain a cloak:
* User must have a verified e-mail address ([[Disposable email address|throwaway/disposable]] emails are not acceptable)
* User must have at least 250 edits on Wikimedia projects
* User must have a Wikimedia project account registered for at least three months
* User must not be actively blocked from a project
Note that anonymity is maintained with more difficulty on IRC than on Wikipedia. Without a [[m:IRC/Cloaks|hostmask]], your IP address will be visible, and indexed on some Internet websites. Even with a hostmask, your IP address is at risk to be revealed due to the nature of the IRC protocol (due to the effects of a "ghost" session). If you are concerned about your anonymity, you may wish to consult with someone familiar with IRC.
Another straightforward way of guaranteeing anonymity on IRC (and elsewhere) is to subscribe with a [[Virtual private network|VPN]] service provider. This will re-route all your [[Internet]] traffic and effectively replace your IP address with the service providers.
Alternatively, [[Tor (anonymity network)|Tor]] may be used to connect. Libera Chat provides an onion service under <code>libera75jm6of4wxpxt4aynol3xjmbtxgfyjpu34ss4d7r7q2v5zrpyd.onion</code> but authentication using [[Simple Authentication and Security Layer|SASL EXTERNAL]] or [[ECDSA|ECDSA-NIST256P-CHALLENGE]] is mandatory. Tor access to the [[Clearnet (networking)|''clearnet'']] domain (<code>irc.libera.chat</code>) is blocked.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://libera.chat/guides/connect#accessing-liberachat-via-tor |title=Connecting to Libera.Chat - Accessing Libera.Chat Via Tor |access-date=13 July 2021}}</ref>
==== Publicly logged channels ====
There are several Wikimedia channels which are purposefully logged. Some of them are listed here:
* {{irc|wikidata}} (logged by [[meta:WM-Bot|wm-bot]])
* {{irc|wikimedia-labs}} (logged by [[meta:WM-Bot|wm-bot]])
* {{irc|wikimedia-mobile}} (logged by [[meta:WM-Bot|wm-bot]])
* {{irc|wikimedia-toolserver}} (logged by [[meta:WM-Bot|wm-bot]])
* {{irc|wikimedia-operations}} (logged by [[meta:WM-Bot|wm-bot]])
* {{irc|wikimedia-tech}} (logged by [[meta:WM-Bot|wm-bot]])
* {{irc|wikimedia-dev}} (logged by [[meta:WM-Bot|wm-bot]])
* {{irc|mediawiki}} (logged by [[meta:WM-Bot|wm-bot]])
* {{irc|wikimedia-office}} (publicly logged when a scheduled staff discussion is happening)
=== List of applications and web clients ===
{{shortcut|WP:IRCCLIENT|WP:IRCHOW}}
Most people needing [[Wikipedia:IRC/wikipedia-en-help|live help editing Wikipedia]] can access IRC easily by clicking here: {{irc|wikipedia-en-help}}. Web-based IRC is a good choice for first-time IRC users, for portable use, and for those who cannot, or prefer not to, [[Installation (computer programs)|install]] separate [[software]].
The usual way to access IRC is by downloading an [[Internet Relay Chat#Clients|IRC client]]. These are more full-featured and make it easy to watch multiple chats at a time. [[Internet Relay Chat script|Scripts]] to enhance IRC clients are available online at [[Wikipedia:Scripts]]. From the [[Comparison of Internet Relay Chat clients|long list of IRC clients]], some popular options are:
{{Wikipedia:IRC/Clients}}
==== IRC error: Unable to join channel (invite only) ====
This error occurs when you attempt to join a non-public channel (see [[#Non-public channels|non-public channels]], below). If you know that you have access to a non-public channel and you still receive this error, the simplest fix is to ask ChanServ for an invite (see '''/msg ChanServ help invite''' for more info). If you have a cloak, you can ask a channel op to add an invex (+I) on your cloak so that you do not need to ask ChanServ for invites each time you need to join the channel.
If, however, you know you both have access to the non-public channel ''and'' you know that you have an invex (+I) on your cloak for that channel, your client might be automatically joining the channel before authenticating. Double-check to make sure your client is set up according to Libera Chat's [https://libera.chat/guides/connect connection guide], and configure your client to [https://libera.chat/guides/registration#logging-in log in when you connect].
=== Use of IRC ===
Once you are connected to the Libera Chat IRC network, you can choose which public channels you join and which chats you engage in. If you are authorized to join non-public channels then you can take part in those too. Consider also [[#Anonymity and masking|requesting a cloak]] to mask your IP address and give other users confidence that you are the Wikipedia user you claim to be.
In general on IRC, each channel operates autonomously and each has its own norms and policies—these may cover conduct (including civility, appropriate topics, and language), on/off-topic chat, who may join, and who may be asked to leave. Each channel is autonomous and in general there is no appeal from a decision by the operators of that channel to an outside body (which may have any or no reason), so it is worth checking the channel norms and rules before accidentally making a mistake of conduct. '''That said, in general most channels used by Wikimedia communities are friendly and do have people you can contact in case of problems.''' (See [[#Problems and help|problems and help]] below.)
Once connected, some users stay logged-in to the chatrooms whenever they are on Wikipedia, and check in on the discussions from time to time, to read what has been accumulating there and to participate. Some programs used for chatting notify you whenever there is activity in a chat room so you will not miss anything. Often, users jump onto a chat room to draw the attention of others there of something on Wikipedia that needs attention.
=== Non-public channels ===
{{further|Wikipedia:IRC/Channel access and configuration guide}}
A number of non-public channels exist, to which access is limited. The best known of these on English Wikipedia is the administrators' channel, but others exist also for groups such as the [[WP:ARBCOM|arbitration committee]], [[Wikipedia:CheckUser|checkuser]] and [[WP:Account creator|account creator]] collaboration. Access to these channels requires use of a registered account, described previously. If you are part of a given group that has a non-public channel, you can request access so that you can join.
Steps to getting access to non-public channels:
# '''Request it''' — Post a new request under [[#Pending requests for access to channels|pending requests for access]], at the end of this page, providing your registered IRC account and links evidencing access.
# '''Get it''' — A channel operator will then drop by to give you access to the channel. Alternatively, ask in #wikimedia-ops, using the <tt>!ops</tt> keyword to get attention.
# '''Use it''' — Once your request is complete, you can invite yourself to the channel using ChanServ's INVITE command as long as you've identified to NickServ. (See {{nowrap|'''<tt>/msg NickServ HELP IDENTIFY</tt>'''}} and {{nowrap|'''<tt>/msg ChanServ HELP INVITE</tt>'''}} for more information.)
# <i>(Optional)</i> In order to gain ''automatic'' access to a non-public channel (i.e. without having to use the ChanServ's <tt>INVITE</tt> command each time), you should first [[#Anonymity and masking|obtain a cloak]]. From there, simply ask an {{abbr|op|operator}} on the channel to add an invex (+I) for your cloak. If you already have a cloak when requesting access, ops will typically add an invex for you at the same time they're giving you access, but if you obtain a cloak ''after'' gaining access or you change your cloak after gaining access, you can typically reach the channel's ops by using either the <tt>!ops</tt> keyword or requesting assistance in #wikimedia-ops.
The [[meta:IRC/Instructions|IRC instructions]] page may also be helpful for getting around.
== List of useful channels ==
: ''Non-public channels listed with a blue padlock icon ([[File:Padlock-blue.svg|15px]]) require additional user access in order to join them. See [[#Non-public channels|non-public channels]] and [[#Pending requests for access to channels|pending requests for access]] for more information. See [[meta:IRC/Channels]] for a more extensive list. ''
=== General channels ===
The main general-purpose channels relevant and related to English Wikipedia are:
{| class="wikitable" border="1"
|-
! Channel
! Description
|-
| {{IRC|wikipedia}}
| General Wikipedia related chat.
|-
| {{IRC|wikipedia-en}}
| General chat focusing more on the '''English-language Wikipedia'''.
|-
| {{IRC|wikipedia-en-help}}
| Help channel for [[WP:Wikipedians|Wikipedians]]. Helpers are voiced, a setting that lets what they say be seen by everyone in the channel. Request a [[meta:IRC/Cloaks|cloak]] to be voiced automatically (if you have autovoice on your account already, [[Wikipedia:IRC/Tutorial|identify to NickServ]] by typing <tt>/msg NickServ identify <nick> <password></tt> to activate it). More information can be found on [[Wikipedia:IRC/wikipedia-en-help|its page]].
|-
| {{IRC|wikipedia-en-blp}}
| On-topic discussion of [[WP:BLP|Biographies of living persons]] (BLP) related issues and actions to be taken. Receives bot feed of various BLP-related pages.
|}
=== User groups ===
==== Functional groups ====
{| class="wikitable" border="1"
|-
! Channel
! Description
|-
| {{IRC|wikipedia-en-admins}} [[File:Padlock-blue.svg|15px]]
| Used by [[Wikipedia:Administrators|admins]] and some other users. I.e.: [[Special:GlobalUsers/steward|stewards]] and [[Special:GlobalUsers/Staff|Wikimedia Foundation staff]]. (See [[##wikipedia-en-admins|''#wikipedia-en-admins'' below]] for more information.)
|-
| {{IRC|wikipedia-en-functionaries}} [[File:Padlock-blue.svg|15px]]
| Used by English Wikipedia [[WP:FUNK|functionaries]] and global [[m:S|stewards]].
|-
| {{IRC|wikipedia-en-arbcom-clerks}} [[File:Padlock-blue.svg|15px]]
| Used by [[WP:AC/C|clerks]] and [[WP:AC/M|members]] of the [[WP:AC|Arbitration Committee]].
|-
| {{IRC|wikimedia-admin}} [[File:Padlock-blue.svg|15px]]
| Used by [[Wikipedia:Administrators|admins]] across all Wikimedia projects for cross-wiki admin co-ordination. (See [[m:IRC/wikimedia-admin|the page ''IRC/wikimedia-admin'' on Meta-Wiki]] for more information.)
|-
| {{IRC|wikipedia-en-BAG}}
| Used by the [[Wikipedia:Bot Approvals Group|'''B'''ot '''A'''pprovals '''G'''roup]] for coordination and discussion/monitoring of [[Wikipedia:Bots/Requests for approval]]. BAG members are voiced (i.e. typically shown in IRC clients by a "+" next to their nickname); anybody is welcome.
|-
| {{IRC|wikipedia-mediation}} [[File:Padlock-blue.svg|15px]]
| Used by the [[Wikipedia:MEDCOM|Mediation Committee]].
|-
| {{IRC|wikimedia-otrs}}
| A public channel for matters related to the [[Wikipedia:Volunteer Response Team|Volunteer Response Team]] and its volunteers. '''This channel is for co-ordination and collaboration, and to find an OTRS user to speak in private; it is <u>not</u> suitable for confidential discussion.''' [[m:VRT/Personnel|OTRS agents]] are voiced (i.e. typically shown in IRC clients by a "+" next to their nickname).
|-
| {{IRC|wikiSignpost}}
| For discussion amongst [[WP:POST|''Signpost'']] editors.
|-
| {{IRC|wikipedia-en-editfilters}} [[File:Padlock-blue.svg|15px]]
| Used by [[WP:EFH|edit filter helpers]], [[WP:EFM|edit filter managers]], and [[WP:ADMIN|administrators]] for private discussion relating to edit filters. '''Invite only channel'''. Use <code>/msg ChanServ invite #wikipedia-en-editfilters</code> if you are already in the admins channel, and you can then join.
|-
|}
=== Social channels ===
{| class="wikitable" border="1"
|-
! Channel
! Description
|-
| {{IRC|wikimedia-social}}
| A channel intended primarily for social discussion among contributors to Wikimedia projects.
|-
|{{IRC|Wikimedia-offtopic}}
|A semi-social channel for conversations that don't really fit into the other Wikimedia project channels.
|-
|{{IRC|Wikipedia-coffeehouse}}
|A place for relaxing, intellectual on-topic chat related to Wikipedia and other associated topics.
|-
| {{IRC|wikipedia-politics}}
| A channel to discuss politics.
|-
| {{IRC|wikipedia-trivia}}
| A fun channel with trivia for both new and veteran editors to polish their Wikipedia knowledge.
|}
=== Channels for specific tasks ===
{| class="wikitable" border="1"
|-
! Channel
! Description
|-
| {{IRC|wikipedia-en-unblock}}
| For the discussion and review of blocks and features live updates of [[CAT:UNBLOCK]]. [[WP:ADMIN|Administrators]] are voiced (i.e. typically shown in IRC clients by a "+" next to their nickname). Not recommended for idling.
|-
| {{IRC|wikipedia-en-accounts}} [[File:Padlock-blue.svg|15px]]
| Used for coordination and collaboration between members of the [[Wikipedia:Request an account|account creation]] team. This channel is invite only (+i).
|-
| {{IRC|wikipedia-en-accounts-admins}} [[File:Padlock-blue.svg|15px]]
| Used for coordination and collaboration between administrators of the [[Wikipedia:Request an account|account creation]] team. This channel is invite only (+i).
|-
| {{IRC|countervandalism}}
| For requesting voice in restricted channels and technical help running a countervandalism channel. See [[m:CVN]] for details about the CounterVandalism Network.
|-
| {{IRC|cvn-wp-en}}
| For listing and discussing current English Wikipedia [[Wikipedia:Vandalism|vandalism]] issues (requires [[User:Pathoschild/Verifications|confirmation]]).
|-
| {{IRC|cvn-wp-en-newpages}}
| For listing new page creations on English Wikipedia that contain possible vandalism.
|-
| {{IRC|wikipedia-en-spam}}
| A botfeed of all links added to English Wikipedia. Channel is for linkspam reverting. Feeds for other languages and projects also now exist.
|-
| {{IRC|wikipedia-spam-t}}
| Talk channel associated with {{IRC|wikipedia-en-spam}}.
|-
| {{IRC|wikipedia-en-csd}}
| For listing edits that add a [[WP:CSD|speedy deletion]] tag.
|-
| {{IRC|wikipedia-en-abuse-log}}
| For listing recent edits that have tripped the [[wp:edit filter|edit filter]], as specified in [[User:DatBot/filters]].
|-
| {{IRC|wikipedia-en-abuse-log-all}}
| A feed of all [[WP:EF|edit filter]] hits. You can subscribe to get direct messages when specific filters are tripped. See [[User:MusikBot/AbuseFilterIRC]] for documentation.
|-
| {{IRC|wikipedia-en-revdel}}
| For sending urgent [[Wikipedia:Revision deletion|revision deletion]] requests to administrators. [[WP:ADMIN|Administrators]] are opped (i.e. typically shown in IRC clients by a "@" next to their nickname) and are the only ones able to see requests.
|-
| {{IRC|wikimedia-npp}}
| General discussion regarding [[WP:NPP|new page patrolling]].
|-
| {{IRC|wikipedia-en-spi}}
| Public channel for coordination among [[WP:SPI|sockpuppet investigation]] [[WP:SPI/C|clerks]] and other users.
|-
|}
=== WikiProjects ===
{| class="wikitable" border="1"
|-
! Channel
! Description
|-
| {{IRC|wikiproject}}
| For [[Wikipedia:WikiProject|WikiProject]] coordination and collaboration.
|-
| {{IRC|wikipedia-en-afc}}
| Used by the [[Wikipedia:AFC|AFC project]] to discuss the backlog, administrative changes (especially to our [[WP:AFCH|helper script]]) and other related tasks.
|-
| {{IRC|wikipedia-en-ambassadors}}
| Coordination and collaboration for members of the Wikipedia Ambassadors Team (part of WikiProject: Public Policy).
|-
| {{IRC|wikipedia-ark}}
| For [[Wikipedia:WikiProject Arkansas|WikiProject Arkansas]]. (Not very active.)
|-
| {{IRC|wikichem}}
| For [[Wikipedia:WikiProject Chemistry|WikiProject Chemistry]]. Channel is open at all hours, regular meetings are scheduled every Tuesday, 16:00 [[GMT]]. [[Wikipedia:WikiProject Chemistry/IRC Discussions|Agenda, minutes, and logs are posted here.]]
|-
| {{IRC|wikimedia-lgbt}}
| Used by [[Wikipedia:WikiProject LGBT studies|WikiProject LGBT studies]] for cross-project coordination, collaboration and socialization.
|-
| {{IRC|wikiphys}}
| For [[Wikipedia:WikiProject Physics|WikiProject Physics]].
|-
| {{IRC|wikipedia-en-roads}}
| For [[Wikipedia:WikiProject Highways|WikiProject Highways]] coordination and collaboration. Retired in favor of [[WP:DISCORD]].
|-
| {{IRC|wikipedia-en-sports}}
| For coordination and collaboration among the various sports wikiprojects.
|-
| {{IRC|wikipedia-teahouse}}
| Used for discussion on the [[WP:TH|''Teahouse'']] by guests and hosts.
|-
| {{IRC|wptcg}}
| For the [[Wikipedia:Trading card game]] development team.
|-
| {{IRC|wiki-hurricanes}}
| For [[Wikipedia:WikiProject Tropical cyclones|WikiProject Tropical cyclones]].
|-
| {{IRC|wikipedia-1.0}}
| For the [[Wikipedia:Version 1.0 Editorial Team|Version 1.0 Editorial Team]].
|-
| {{IRC|WikiProject-United-States}}
| For [[Wikipedia:WikiProject United States|WikiProject United States]] and related projects and topics.
|-
| {{IRC|wikipedia-library}}
| Used for discussion on [[WP:TWL|The Wikipedia Library]] by coordinators and guests.
|-
| {{IRC|wikipedia-medicine}}
| Used for discussion and coordination with [[WP:MED|WikiProject Medicine]] and related projects and topics.
|-
| {{IRC|wikipedia-en-appleinc}}
| General Apple Inc. and related WikiProjects discussion
|-
| {{IRC|wikipedia-en-openproxies}}
| Discussion and coordination related to the [[WP:WPOP|WikiProject on open proxies]]
|}
=== Technical channels, and technical support for tools ===
==== Technical ====
{| class="wikitable" border="1"
|-
! Channel
! Description
|-
| {{IRC|wikimedia-tech}}
| Technical issues related to the Wikimedia systems.
|-
| {{IRC|mediawiki}}
| Discussion and technical questions related to the [[MediaWiki]] [[software]] (including template help, and other questions).
|}
==== Tools, and support for tools ====
{| class="wikitable" border="1"
|-
! Channel
! Description
|-
| {{IRC|AutoWikiBrowser}}
| General discussion and support requests for [[WP:AWB|AutoWikiBrowser]].
|-
| {{IRC|huggle}}
| Support for the tool [[WP:HG|Huggle]].
|-
| {{IRC|swviewer}}
| Support for the tool [[WP:SWViewer|SWViewer]].
|-
| {{IRC|wikipedia-userscripts}}
| Help and discussion of JavaScript tools.
|}
== #wikipedia-en-admins ==
{{Shortcut|WP:WEA}}
All current and former English Wikipedia administrators in good standing have a presumption of entry to this channel, subject to appropriate conduct. [[m:Stewards|Stewards]] and people who currently work for the Foundation are allowed access, too. Access to this channel is set to ''invite only'' (+i). Administrators who want to join this channel have to request access to this channel before being able to join the first time. [[#Pending requests for access to channels|Access can be requested hereafter.]]
Once an editor is granted access, they retain it unless they are involuntarily de-sysopped or request removal of access to the channel. Formal access to the channel will not usually be long-term revoked unless a participant refuses to abide by the standards of conduct expected of channel members or unless the user is involuntarily de-sysopped. If a user is theoretically unable to ask for and receive their administrator rights from the [[Wikipedia:Bureaucrats' noticeboard|Bureaucrats' noticeboard]], they will not be permitted access to the channel.
The channel has [[m:IRC/wikipedia-en-admins/Guidelines|an internal code of conduct and newcomer information]]. These guidelines set out some "anti-abuse" provisions that consensus agrees the channel operators may draw on, if they are notified of a problem. However, as with all guidelines, they are intended to be for the benefit of the project, with common sense, and not "set in stone".
[[m:IRC/wikipedia-en-admins|IRC/wikipedia-en-admins]] on Meta has more details, including a list of all users who have access to the channel. See also [[Wikipedia:List of administrators/IRC nicknames]].
== Help ==
=== Problems and help ===
Help for accessing IRC itself is best requested on the [[WT:IRC|talk page]], if you have read the tutorial and other information and are still unable to use it. Once you can access IRC by some means, there are help and information channels on most Wikimedia-related topics listed above, type '''<tt>/join #channelname</tt>''' into any window, to join them and ask your question (e.g., '''<tt>/join #wikipedia-en-help</tt>'''). It is customary on IRC to just ''ask'', not to ask whether you can ask. :-)
Within the Wikimedia and English Wikipedia channels, your first recourse if you have difficulty, is to ask to speak to a channel operator, if any are around. You can identify channel operators in most of these channels since they will appear as having the "o" flag in a list of channel users and flags. Type '''<tt>/msg chanserv flags #channelname</tt>''' for a list of users and their access levels (this can sometimes have hundreds of lines). Further help can be obtained as follows:
:* '''<tt>#wikipedia-en</tt>''': Ask to speak to a channel operator. If needed, you can often address such problems to administrators who are IRC users. (Please see the userlist of <tt>#wikipedia-en-admins</tt> for information.)
:* '''<tt>#wikipedia-en-admins</tt>''' (the non-public admins channel): Has adopted its own code of conduct that covers problematic situations; please see that channel's guidelines and user information above, for relevant links and userlists.
:* '''All other <tt>#wiki...</tt> channels''': Speak to a channel operator for that channel.
:* Beyond that, the Wikimedia channels are supervised by the [[:m:IRC/Group Contacts|IRC Group Contacts]]—currently [[:m:User:Dungodung|Dungodung]] (<tt>dungodung</tt> on IRC), [[:m:User:Snowolf|Snowolf]] (<tt>Snowolf</tt> on IRC), [[:m:User:Az1568|Az1568]] (<tt>AlexZ</tt> on IRC), and [[:m:User:Fox|Fox]] (<tt>foks</tt> on IRC)—who can advise on serious problems that channel operators cannot resolve.
''If the problem relates to user conduct in any channel'', your first recourse should be to try and resolve matters with the person involved. If this fails, ask to speak to a channel operator. If your problem cannot be resolved by channel operators, then it may be raised further, as previously mentioned.
: '''It is the policy of some channels that you should not post logs on the wiki, or circulate them without permission from those involved'''; rather, if a matter requires logs then please obtain permission before circulating or publicizing them, and if in doubt ask a channel operator or other experienced user for advice.
{{/Access requests}}
== See also ==
=== Information ===
* [[Wikipedia:IRC/Channel access and configuration guide]] – how channel access works on Libera Chat IRC
* [[Wikipedia:IRC/Tutorial]]
* [[Wikipedia:IRC/wikipedia-en-help]] – the primary channel for editors seeking help on using and editing the English Wikipedia
* [[m:IRC]] – information page on Meta-Wiki (not to be confused with [[mIRC]], an IRC client)
* [[m:IRC/Channels]] – main list
* [[m:IRC/Cloaks]] – provides information about obtaining a hostmask cloak
* [[m:IRC/wikipedia-en-admins/User list#Operators]] – list of channel ops for #wikipedia-en-admins
=== Tools ===
* [[Wikipedia:Huggle]] – Cross-platform application that allows users to watch recent changes, and automates many vandal-fighting tasks
* [[Wikipedia:Scripts#IRC channel scripts]]
=== User essays ===
* [[:Category:User essays on IRC]] – other opinions on these IRC channels and their use by Wikipedians
* [[Wikipedia:IRC/Personal views regarding IRC]] – written by members of the arbitration committee in January 2007
=== Quotes ===
* [[m:IRC/Quotes]] ([[m:BASH]]) – a collection of humorous IRC quotes, posted only with consent from the quotee
* [[m:IRC/wikipedia-fr/extraits choisis|French quotes]]
* [http://toolserver.org/~soxred93/bash/ m:BASH quote generator] – X!'s tools, get quotes from the IRC Quote Database
=== Other discussion venues ===
* [[Wikipedia:External discussion]]
* [[Wikipedia:Mailing lists]]
* [[Wikipedia:Off-wiki policy discussion]]
* [[Wikipedia:Discord]] (text and voice chat)
* [[Wikipedia:Mumble]] (voice chat, defunct)
* [[meta:Matrix.org]]
== References ==
{{reflist}}
== External links ==
* [https://libera.chat/ Libera Chat website]
{{Help navigation}}
{{Wikipedia technical help|collapsed}}
[[Category:Wikipedia help forums|IRC]]
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