👉 IRC (Internet Relay Chat) computing refers to the underlying infrastructure and protocols that enable real-time, text-based communication over the internet through chat rooms. At its core, IRC operates on a client-server model where users connect to IRC servers using clients. These servers manage user connections, route messages between participants, and maintain the chat room's state. IRC uses a proprietary protocol for message exchange, including commands for joining rooms, sending messages, and controlling chat interactions. The computing aspect involves handling network traffic, ensuring message delivery reliability, and managing server resources to support multiple concurrent connections. Additionally, IRC networks often rely on decentralized architectures, allowing users to connect directly to servers or through intermediary nodes, enhancing both scalability and resilience. Security measures like encryption (e.g., IRC over TLS) are also integral to protect user privacy and data integrity.
