Your first IRC connection

IRC is a collection of independent chat networks, each with its own channels and community rules. Textual is the app you use to connect, so you do not need a Textual website account to start chatting.

Install and open Textual

Download Textual 7, open the disk image, and copy the app into Applications before launching it. The current 7.2.7 release requires macOS 12 Monterey or later, and the trial lasts 30 days. If you use an older Mac, consult the download and update guide before choosing a release.

Add a network

1. Open Server → Add Server… in Textual's menu bar.
2. Enter the server address and port supplied by your IRC network, using its TLS connection details when available.
3. Choose a nickname and fill in the identity fields. A nickname is the name people see in chat; an IRC account is a separate registration with that network.
4. Save the connection and connect to it from the server list.

For example, Libera Chat publishes its current connection details in its connection guide. Follow the chosen network's instructions rather than reusing another network's passwords or settings.

Join a channel

Select the connection, then enter a command such as:

/join #channel-name

Replace #channel-name with the channel you want to visit. Once joined, type into the input field and press Return to send your message. Channels may require registration, an invitation, or a channel password, so check the server console if a channel never finishes joining.

Register and reconnect

Many networks use NickServ to manage accounts. Follow the network's registration instructions, then configure SASL authentication so Textual can identify you when it connects.

Your connections and channels are saved locally. Export your preferences before moving Macs or making substantial changes, using the backup guide.