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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

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. In the meantime, 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.