Small client, full network.
kirc is a tiny IRC client for people who prefer simple, readable tools over feature-packed interfaces. It speaks plain text, keeps configuration close to the shell, and stays out of your way.
Why kirc?
Many IRC clients grew into full desktop applications. kirc stays small: a compact codebase, direct configuration, and a focus on the protocol instead of the interface.
- Lightweight and fast to build
- Plain text configuration and usage
- Easy to package and audit
Project goals
The goal is a dependable IRC client that can be read in an afternoon, compiled in a moment, and integrated into existing Unix workflows.
This page describes the general intent of the project rather than a strict feature list. Check the repository for the latest details.
Features
Core
- Connect to standard IRC networks and servers
- Join channels and exchange messages
- Support for common IRC commands
Design
- Small, focused single-purpose client
- Simple text-based interaction model
- Easy to script and wrap in your environment
Philosophy
kirc leans toward clarity over abstraction. The code is meant to be understandable, portable, and modifiable by anyone comfortable with C and the Unix socket APIs.
Usage sketch
The exact interface may evolve, but a typical session can be as simple as:
# connect to an IRC server
$ kirc -s irc.example.org -p 6667 -c "#foo,#bar" alice
# once connected, type IRC commands directly
/join #another-channel
/msg user hello there
/quitSee the repository and man page (if packaged by your distribution) for the precise command-line options and feature set.
Build and install
kirc is intended to build cleanly on common Unix-like environments with a C compiler and standard libraries available.
$ git clone https://github.com/mcpcpc/kirc.git
$ cd kirc/
$ make && make installFor packaging, you can integrate the single binary into your system’s preferred layout and supply a manual page and configuration examples.