IRC (Internet Relay Chat) might no longer be in the trend. But, it will always be a part of the communication platform, even when you read this article in 2050 or more.
It was popular back in the 2000s, and some still prefer it over modern chat clients like Slack and Discord. Several open-source project developers utilize IRC for real-time communication over proprietary options.
It just works and has performance benefits; you do not need to sign up for a company’s specific terms and conditions to use it. Moreover, with some web IRC clients, you can expect some modern features like link previews.
You can always use an IRC desktop/mobile client and connect to a server. But, what if you want more control and host it yourself so you can access it on the web for your community and friends?
For such use cases, let me highlight the IRC web clients that offer self-host options. I have tried to keep the list limited to actively maintain projects.
The Lounge
The Lounge is a modern web IRC client that packs in useful features like push notifications, file uploads, link previews, and multi-user support. Regarding the user experience, I find it similar to the Rocket.Chat experience, which is an open-source Slack alternative.
You get support for plugins to extend functionality and add features as per your requirements. Furthermore, there are themes available to customize the look and feel of the client.
It can run on any platform that supports Node.js like Linux, Windows, and macOS. For self-hosting, you can utilize the Docker image, which would let you access it on the web browser. You can explore more details on its GitHub page and official documentation.
Key Features:
Public/Private server modeCross-platform client supportFile uploads, link previewsPlugin supportTheme support
Convos
Convos is a unique chat application with IRC support that lets you make video calls as well. It manages to keep you online even when you have closed the web browser. So you can still get all the messages, and activities logged.
It supports rich text formatting, and themes for you to customize the look and feel of the web IRC client experience. There is also Pastebin integration, and file upload functionality along with other features.
You can set it up on your home server, cloud service, or using Docker. So, you have multiple ways to set it up.
Interestingly, Convos can also be used as a generic CMS. Of course, you will be better off with the best open-source CMS options out there. But, it is still an option.
Explore more about it on its GitHub page.
Key Features:
Always onlineVideo callUse as a CMSTheme supportFile upload and rich text formatting
Kiwi IRC
Kiwi IRC is a more traditional-looking web IRC client with versatile features, and plugin support to extend functionality. The good thing about it is, you get static files, so it should be a hassle-free and reliable experience to host it. You get it with a default IRC network, but you can always use your own.
It also supports themes for you to customize the look and multiple users in the network. While it is actively developed, the official website seems like it hasn’t been updated in a long time.
It may not be the most modern option on the list, but it is a decent candidate for simple static use-cases. Explore more about it on its GitHub page.
Key Features:
Traditional UI for a web IRCTheme supportPlugin support
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WeeChat
If you want a feature-rich support, and a traditional experience at the same time, WeeChat can be a nice pick. It is also incredibly small and lightweight to use.
It looks like a terminal-based user interface, and it supports IRC and other chat protocols (if you wish not to use IRC). You can host your instance of WeeChat and access it from your phone, or computer through the web browser.
There are scripts that you can utilize and functionalities to help you enhance the experience.
Conclusion
Matrix is often considered the spiritual successor to IRC, not that IRC is dead. If you are not satisfied with IRC and want something similar in open source domain, take a look at Matrix.
There is a popular meme on the internet that states IRC as Discord for old people.
Whether you agree to it, that’s up to you. What I believe is that we are a diverse group of people. Some people will feel at home with IRC and some will find comfort in Discord, Matrix, etc.
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