A chat client is a program for online chat rooms, while instant messengers are designed for use while browsing the web. Chat programs allow for real-time communication between multiple people on a separate network. Popular chat clients include mIRC, XChat, and Trillian. IRC has its own language and netiquette, and it’s recommended to get an online tutor or practice in newbie chat rooms.
A chat client is a software program designed for use in online chat rooms. It could also be associated with instant messaging (IM) programs, although instant messengers are designed to be used while browsing the web. This makes standard IM programs look more like a plug-in than a full-fledged chat client . What instant messengers and a chat client have in common is that they both allow for real-time communication between people who are online at the same time. As soon as a participant types a message and presses “send” in the chat or instant messenger, the recipient sees the response within their chat or instant messenger.
However, the similarities end there. While an instant messaging communication is usually between two people who are browsing the web, a chat program uses a separate network designed to allow multiple people to talk to each other in real time. Using a chat program, a participant can discuss one of countless topics with dozens or even hundreds of other people.
Various “chat rooms”, each with its own topic, are located at unique network addresses. The user chooses the topic they want to discuss, then joins the chat room. Chat rooms operate 24/7, and at any one time, a particular chat room might jump with hundreds of participants or be practically empty.
Chat programs operate on the Internet Relay Chat (IRC) network. Probably the longest running and most popular chat client is mIRC. The “m” stands for the author’s surname, Khaled Mardam-Bey. This is shareware, available for a free 30 day trial.
Another popular chat program is XChat (Cross Chat). This chat client is open source – the coding is available for anyone to review. Open source programs are especially popular, as public scrutiny usually means fewer bugs and fewer security issues. Open source programs are free, and this client runs on Windows or Linux operating systems.
Trillian is a chat client combined with an instant messenger. It comes in two varieties, Basic and Pro. Many people find Trillian to suit their needs. The chat program you prefer will likely depend on your personal tastes.
IRC is much more involved than IM and has its own “language” and netiquette. If interested in using a chat program and entering the world of IRC, it’s a good idea to get an online tutor, easily found with a search engine. There are also chat rooms for newbies, where those just learning about IRC can practice talking to each other and asking questions of the moderators.
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