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Public network

Join freenode

The original FOSS network (post-2021). Here's the freenode server address, the busiest channels, and exactly how to connect from any IRC client.

Server
irc.freenode.net
Port
6697 TLS
Users
≈700
Location
🇺🇸 Dallas, United States
IP address
149.28.246.185
Website
freenode.net

How to connect to freenode

Point your IRC client at the address below. The connection is encrypted with TLS. Use the secure port.

ircs://irc.freenode.net:6697
  1. Open your IRC client (HexChat, WeeChat, irssi, mIRC, Textual…).
  2. Add a new network with the command /server irc.freenode.net +6697.
  3. Choose a nickname and connect (make sure TLS/SSL is enabled).
  4. Type /list to browse channels, or /join #channel to jump straight in.

Channels on freenode

We're indexing the public channel list for freenode. Connect and run /list in your IRC client to browse every room, or /join #channel to enter one directly.

About freenode

The original FOSS network (post-2021). freenode is an independent public IRC network with around 700 users.

Official website: freenode.net

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Other IRC networks

Libera.Chat≈35k usersOFTC≈30k usersQuakeNet≈15k usersRizon≈13k usersIRCnet≈11k usersUndernet≈10k users

Frequently asked questions

What is the server address of freenode?
freenode is reachable at ircs://irc.freenode.net:6697. Hostname irc.freenode.net, port 6697 over TLS/SSL.
Is freenode free?
Yes, it's a free, public IRC network. No account is required to start chatting.
How do I join a channel?
After connecting, type /join #channelname in your client.