# IRC To connect to the [tildeverse IRC network](https://tilde.chat) and begin chatting while logged on to tilde.institute, simply use the command `chat`! If you prefer to use a different IRC client than the default, such as `irssi`, the following server information will apply: * institute.tilde.chat * Port 6697 * TLS / SSL Don't forget to `/join #institute` and `/join #meta`. **NOTE:** You must register with `nickserv` to talk in `#meta`: ``` /msg nickserv register ``` ## Certificates If you get an untrusted certificate error, change this line in `$HOME/.weechat/weechat.conf` ``` gnutls_ca_file = "/etc/ssl/cert.pem" ``` ## Channels There are quite a few channels on tilde.chat, however some have more activity than others. Here's a few channels that you may be interested in. * `#meta` - the general chat channel for all of the [tildeverse](https://tildeverse.org) * `#helpdesk` - the place to ask IRC operators questions * `#institute`- for tilde.institute-related discussion * `#tilderadio` - the channel for the [tildeverse radio station](https://tilderadio.org) * `#cosmic` - discussions pertaining to [cosmic voyage](https://cosmic.voyage), a `tilde` focusing on collaborative science fiction writing * `#tildetel` - the channel for [tilde.tel](https://tilde.tel), the neighborhood SIP server * `#security` - computer, software, and network security discussions * `#hamradio` - the channel for hams! * `#gopher` - for the gopher protocol * `#gemini` - discussion for the Gemini protocol You can check the currently available channels any time by issuing `/list` in your IRC client. ## Connecting Externally Want to hang out on the tildeverse when you aren't connected to tilde.institute? No problem! Just use these settings in your favorite IRC client: * irc.tilde.chat * Port 6697 * TLS/SSL is required The DNS round robin will connect you to one of the nodes in the network. If you're using `weechat` the following will connect you: ``` /server add tilde irc.tilde.chat/6697 -ssl -autoconnect /connect tilde ``` And if you're using `irssi` ``` /connect -tls -tls_verify irc.tilde.chat 6697 ``` The tildeverse IRC network also runs an instance of `The Lounge`, a web-based IRC client that allows you to stay connected even when you're away. It's available at: * [https://web.tilde.chat](https://web.tilde.chat) Join us on the tildeverse IRC network and socialize with other tilde users! [back](/)