Ergo IRC
Modern IRC server implementation in Rust.
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What is Ergo IRC?
Ergo IRC is an open-source Internet Relay Chat (IRC) server implemented in Go, designed to provide a modern, flexible, and feature-rich alternative to traditional IRC daemons. It simplifies IRC server management by integrating core functionalities typically handled by separate components, such as an IRC daemon (ircd), services framework, and bouncer capabilities. The tool caters to developers, system administrators, and community managers seeking a yet approachable IRC solution. It addresses the complexity of legacy IRC servers by offering a streamlined setup process, real-time configuration reloads, and support for the latest IRCv3 protocols. Its modular architecture and YAML-based configuration make it adaptable for diverse use cases, from small-scale chat networks to enterprise-grade communication systems.
How it works
Ergo IRC is a modern IRC server that replaces traditional ircd implementations with a unified platform combining server, services, and bouncer functionalities. It prioritizes simplicity in deployment while maintaining advanced capabilities like IRCv3 support and real-time configuration updates. The project's primary purpose is to provide a scalable, customizable IRC infrastructure for users who require reliable messaging, user account management, and historical chat data retention without relying on external tools. Ergo IRC supports bleeding-edge IRCv3 protocols, enabling features like message tags, SASL authentication, and channel mode extensions. It integrates a built-in services framework for managing external modules and a bouncer-like system for maintaining persistent connections and message history. The server also includes a rehashable YAML configuration system, allowing operators to adjust settings dynamically without restarting the service.
How to use it
- 1Clone the repository from GitHub: `git clone https://github.com/ergochat/ergo.git`.
- 2Install dependencies using `go mod tidy` and build the server with `go build`.
- 3Configure the server by editing the YAML config file (`config.yaml`) to set network parameters, user authentication, and service modules.
- 4Run the server using `./ergo` and connect clients via IRC clients or the built-in web interface. Practical tips: Use Docker for simplified deployment, refer to the `USERGUIDE.md` for configuration examples, and leverage the `MANUAL.md` for advanced operator tasks like managing services or troubleshooting connection issues.
What it can do
- irc server
Use cases
Assumptions and limitations
Assumptions
- source: https://github.com/ergochat/ergo
- license: MIT — free to use
- privacy: Self-hosted — you control your data
Limitations
- Limited out-of-the-box GUI tools compared to commercial IRC servers.
- Requires familiarity with YAML configuration syntax for advanced customization.
- Smaller community support compared to legacy ircds like ircd-seven or UnrealIRCd.
- No built-in web-based administration dashboard (though third-party tools exist).
- Potential learning curve for users accustomed to traditional IRC server architectures.
Understanding the result
Modern IRC server implementation in Rust.
Tool details
- Clearly flagged when a network request is needed.
- No account, no sign-up, and no tracking of your content.
- Powered by (MIT).
- Built with
- (ergochat/ergo)
- License
- MIT
- Runs locally
- No — requires a network request
- Verification
- Not yet verified
- Input
- Query
- Output
- Text
Built with ergochat/ergo. OpenToolVault provides the discovery and browser interface while crediting the original project maintainers.
- Built with
- License
- MIT
Open-source project
OpenToolVault is an independent directory. We are not affiliated with or endorsed by this project.
References
- / — GitHub Repository
Upstream project · GitHub
- MIT License
Upstream project
Frequently asked
What is the primary difference between Ergo IRC and traditional IRC servers?
Ergo IRC unifies the roles of an IRC daemon (ircd), services framework, and bouncer into a single process, reducing dependency on external tools. Traditional servers often require separate components for user authentication, message history, and connection persistence, which Ergo integrates natively. This simplifies setup while maintaining advanced features like IRCv3 compliance.
How does Ergo IRC handle configuration changes without restarting the server?
Ergo IRC uses a rehashable YAML configuration system that allows operators to reload settings dynamically. Changes to the `config.yaml` file can be applied on-the-fly using the `/REHASH` command in the IRC client or via the server's API. This ensures minimal downtime during adjustments to network settings, user permissions, or service modules.
How do I set up user accounts and authentication with Ergo IRC?
User accounts are managed via the YAML configuration file, where you define authentication methods like SASL or plaintext. For example, add a `users` section with entries like `user: alice password: secret` to enable login. After saving the config, use `/REHASH` to apply changes. Users can then connect using their credentials, and the server will enforce access controls based on the configuration.
How does Ergo IRC compare to alternatives like UnrealIRCd or ircd-seven?
Ergo IRC focuses on simplicity and modern protocol support, whereas UnrealIRCd and ircd-seven emphasize extensibility through modules. Ergo's YAML-based config is easier for beginners but less granular than UnrealIRCd's hybrid config. It also integrates bouncer-like features by default, which are typically optional in other servers. For users prioritizing IRCv3 compliance and minimal setup, Ergo is preferable; for those needing legacy compatibility or advanced module ecosystems, traditional servers may be better.
How do I troubleshoot connection issues with Ergo IRC?
First, check the server logs in `logs/ircd.log` for errors like 'unable to bind port' or 'authentication failed'. Verify that the `config.yaml` file has correct network settings, including port numbers and bind addresses. If clients cannot connect, ensure the firewall allows traffic on the specified port. Use the `/CLIENTS` command in the server's admin interface to list active connections and identify potential bottlenecks. For persistent issues, consult the `SECURITY.md` file for mitigation strategies.