An IRC (Internet Relay Chat) network is a collection of servers connected together. As and when a user logs into the network, the user is connected to all the users in the entire network though not to the same server. Information is shared over the network with all the computers having access to the data. A channel is similar to a chat room where the user’s words are heard by all the other users in the channel. IRC can be used in this case to chat privately with another user or in a channel. Channels that are similar for example those that share files, music, videos etc. can be joined to form a single large channel group.
An open source client which is handy for communication in IRC channels is the HydraIRC utility which is source free. Designed to be attractive with user friendly interface, the tool is compiled in C++ language with the combination of modern programs like Visual Studio 7 or WTL/ATL for a stream lined and efficient experience in terms of speed and productivity. A common notion is to mistake the functionality of HydraIRC. The tool is not a script plug in or any other kind of add on for mIRC.

Some of the tools supported by version 0.3.165 include:

. Highly customizable Graphical User Interface which promotes quick learning.
. Support for DCC file transfers and chat with the provision to connect to multiple servers simultaneously.
. Advanced utility tools like Auto hiding windows, DLL plug ins, Channel Monitoring, Audio and Visual Notifications, Message Logs, event based core, Dock able Floating Tabbed Windows, Buddy Groups, Event Viewer and favorites to name a few.
. A light weight application which installs smoothly. The user can choose between predefined IRC networks and a new one.
. Online support is provided, however more support is provided by the IRC channel itself.

System Requirements:

. Runs on Windows 98, Me, 2000, XP and 2003.
. Best operation requires 16 or 32 bit display modes.
. Minimum requirements are needed as very little space, memory and time are used.