-- as presented by undernet #goth IRC stands for "internet relay chat". It is a vast array of servers throughout the world whose sole purpose is serving up a forum for discussion of any and all topics. There are several large chat networks, EFnet, Undernet, Dalnet, etc... as well as countless smaller ones. Getting on IRC isn't very difficult, it's generally getting OFF irc, and finding a real life that presents the greatest challenge. If you choose to forego a normal existence as we know it, and hook up to irc, you will need the following: A TCP/IP connection of some sort (this is usually your account through your ISP), or something that will assign an IP address. An IRC client such as mirc (windows), or ircII (linux/unix). A life not worth living. Thick skin. (if you plan on visiting #goth, that is) To join the undernet, and visit your favorite bat channel, you will need to connect to an undernet server. There are about 30 of them now, several are better than others. I usually hook up with the server in San Diego, (sandiego.ca.us.undernet.org) because lately it seems to lag less, or Vancouver, BC (vancouver.bc.ca.undernet.org) for the same reason. You may wish to go with a server closer to your geographic location. A list of current servers is available here. A note of caution, the undernet is a large network, and pretty much anything goes. Prepare to be assaulted with vulgar content and deal with harassment on a daily basis. "Gothic" channels are especially susceptible to attacks, since goths tend to be just a bunch of freaks that people want to beat up in real life anyway, and we often provoke others unwittingly with our endless, pathetic, flow of self pity and mindless gloominess. We on #goth know about this facet of undernet culture particularly well, seeing as how we practically wrote the book on rudeness. Consider yourself warned!