Halloy

Connect to IRC networks, join channels and arrange conversations in panes. Configuration options and keyboard shortcuts suit people who follow several technical or community discussions.

For voice conversations alongside text-based IRC, consider a separate voice client such as Mumble.

When it is useful

Halloy is useful when the communities you follow already meet on IRC: an open-source support channel, a technical discussion or a small interest group. Its panes let you keep conversations visible together, while highlights and notifications help decide what deserves attention. The practical benefit is a desktop workspace for existing IRC networks, rather than having to move everyone to a new messaging service.

A practical way to get started

Start with one network and one channel. Use the network’s published connection details, choose a nickname and follow its account-registration guidance if needed. Check that you can reconnect and authenticate before adding more servers. Then arrange the panes and reduce notifications to the events you care about. Keep a copy of your configuration, but check it for passwords and other credentials before sharing it for troubleshooting.

What to consider before choosing

IRC features depend on both the client and the network. Message history while you are disconnected may require server support or a separately configured bouncer; installing Halloy alone does not guarantee it. TLS protects the connection to the server, not an end-to-end private conversation between participants. If you need built-in meetings or a fully managed team workspace, check that requirement before choosing an IRC-focused client.