Configuring HexChat for AustNet

To connect to AustNet using HexChat—one of the most popular graphical IRC clients—you can configure your network preferences and authentication settings directly through the network list interface.

1. Adding AustNet to the Network List

1. Open HexChat. If the Network List window does not appear automatically, press Ctrl+S (or go to Network List under the file/window menu).
2. Click the Add button to create a new network entry.
3. Type a clear name for the network, such as AustNet, and press Enter.
4. Select your new AustNet entry from the list and click Edit.

2. Configuring Nickname and Servers

1. In the Edit Network configuration window:
2. Nick name: Enter your primary desired nickname.
3. Second choice: Enter a backup nickname in case your primary one is temporarily held.
4. User name: Enter your desired ident.
5. Real name: Enter your display name or general description.
6. Under the Servers box, remove any default placeholder entries, click Add, and input the official AustNet server address with the secure SSL port:

Plaintext

3. Enabling SSL/TLS Encryption

To ensure your connection is fully encrypted and secure:

1. In the same network settings window, locate the Connect to this network automatically checkbox and check it if desired.
2. Find the dropdown menu labeled Server password / SASL or Use SSL for all servers on this network.
3. Ensure Use SSL for all servers on this network is checked (or select the specific SSL option for the server entry).
4. (Optional) If your client prompts for certificate verification settings, leave them on default standards to trust valid network certificates on port 6697.

4. Auto-Identifying with NickOP on Connect

To ensure your registered NickOP account is automatically authenticated every time you log in without manual typing:

1. In the Edit Network window, look for the Login method dropdown menu.
2. Select NickServ (HexChat uses this generic label to execute post-connect commands or identify routines; remember that AustNet's backend service answers to NickOP).
3. Account / Username: Enter your registered NickOP account name.
4. Password: Enter your registered NickOP password.
5. (Alternatively, if your client supports automated command execution on connect, you can add a command string under your network preferences such as /msg NickOP IDENTIFY your_password).

Once configured, click Close, select AustNet from your Network List, and click Connect!