The most immediate and person to person use of the Internet is IRC
(Internet Relay Chat), also known simply as chatting. Chatting can be conducted in
web based chat rooms on a browser, or by using an application such as MS Netmeeting, ICQ, MIRC or ComicChat. (For the latter two the use
will need to make a separate connection to a chat server.)To maintain
anonymity, each user usually uses a nickname. The user can either create channels of their
own and invite others to join them or listen into and contribute to established chat channels.
Chatting can be carried out by typing messages that are often full of abbreviations. These messages are then relayed to all other
users of the channel. Whispering is sending a private
message to just one user of the channel. Messages can also be sent by speaking into
a microphone attached to your computer. Varied topics of interest or threads
are discussed.
Most chat channels are controlled by a moderator or
group of users who establish standards for their channel. If a user breaks the rules
or is offensive, they can be removed or bumped off the channel by its owners. One
activity that is frowned on is flooding, swamping the channel
with your own messages eg inviting others to join your chat group, or advertising a
product.
Another activity that is generally not acceptable is to flame
someone. This means to let someone know in very strong words how you feel about what
they have said or done. A person who has been flamed may reply in kind, starting a flame
war.
