Chat Rooms - IM and IRC

For those who want a more direct line of conversation to friends, family, and co-workers, IM, or "Instant Messenger", and IRC, or "Internet Relay Chat" are the best choices. Chat is a different type of communication, as different as the differences between e-mail and web pages. Chat allows two people to talk by creating a single log that is universally read by multiple users. This log is then appended to as each person speaks. Currently the two most popular chat methods used, IRC and IM, are accessable quite easily with the proper software, and both are free to use. To access them, you'll need to get the software and then set it up for use. Both are fairly easy to do.

Internet Relay Chat Software
For real-time multiple-user discussions in a very public forum, IRC is the best thing to use. Channels, or chat rooms, are linked through many different servers, letting people from all over the world talk on the same line. Discussions are usually kept within the confines of a specific topic, designated by the name of the active channel.
for the PC - mIRC
for the Mac - smIRCle
Both of these programs are simple and easy to use. Long and precise help is available with the program and online at countless sites.

Accessing IRC
You type in your name and your e-mail, neither of which need be real. You then choose a server to use, such as DalNet, and that's it! You can then join any of the many channels and start talking.

Instant Messenger Software
Instant Messenger is primarily a direct one-to-one communication, but it can also be used for multiple-user discussions. The main difference between IRC and IM, is that with IM you must know the user name of the person with whom you wish to talk. This is good beause by doing this, only friends and family can talk to you, and the discussions can be kept private. Additionally, abusive users can be banned by individuals from intiating chats, perventing further harrassment.
Instant Messenger
for the PC or the Mac
The design is somewhat limited for use, but its function is direct and simple.

Accessing IM
A unique user name and password set must be created for access, and the sign on process requires that you have the latest Netscape Communicator. For those unwilling or unable to run the latest Communicator, you will nor be able to sign up for Instant Messenger. However, if you know someone who has the latest version, you can use their machine to create your account.

Using Chat
Just like with all the other forms of communication on the Internet, chat rooms are uncensored and completely free of restriction. If you enter a public forum, it's just as though you walked out on the street to talk to people. If you feel unsure about speaking frankly on various topics, it may be best to stay with the private forms of communication like e-mail and IM. And remember: when speaking on an open forum, choose your words carefully. Not everyone will share your views and keeping things civil is everyone's responsibility.

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