Internet Relay Chat services

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IRC services is a common name for a set of features implemented in most modern Internet Relay Chat networks. Services are automated bots with special status which are generally used to provide users with access with certain privileges and protection. They usually implement some sort of login system so that only people on the access control list can obtain these services.

1 Components
2 IRC Services Software Packages
3 See also
4 External links

[edit] Components

The most popular style of services use a number of fake clients whose names end in "Serv". The four below are nearly always seen in services of this style.

The ChanServ, channel service bot, is used to protect channel operators and help run the channel. This is convenient for the operators because they do not need to have an operator on the channel all of the time to keep their status.

The NickServ, nickname service bot, is used to register and protect user nicknames.

The MemoServ, memo service bot, is used to record and deliver messages to users who are currently offline.

The OperServ, is used by IRC Operators.

Some others are also seen following this naming convention in some services packages including:

The HelpServ, the help service bot, is used to provide help on a variety of IRC topics.

The HostServ, host service bot, is used to allow general users to register a vhost so that their real IP address on IRC is hidden.

The RootServ, used on specific networks, is utilized by Services Root Administrators to perform Root Administrative functions for the IRC Network and Services Program.

The StatServ, statistic services bot, is used to perform various statistical analysis on the IRC Network.

The DevNull, a message agent, is a specific service that is used to send global messages via services. This agent is usually given a global IRC Operator status as to be able to perform the function. This service must be on a U:Lined server so it has the ability to spoof nicknames.

[edit] IRC Services Software Packages

There are several software packages that implement services. Some of the popular ones include srvx, atheme, Hybserv (developed for use with the Hybrid IRC daemon software), Epona (Now deprecated), Anope, and IRC Services 5 (supporting a wide range of IRC daemons). While some of these packages provide excellent features in the eyes of many users, some network operators decide to write their own services, with the most important reasons being flexibility, customization, and often, mostly on smaller networks, fun also plays an important role. Not all packages implement the above service bots. Also, sometimes the bots have different names, and may or may not implement these functions in the form listed above. Even so, the above form is the most common.