Private messages and DCC on AustNet

While the majority of IRC activity takes place in shared public channels, AustNet also supports private, one-on-one communication. Whether you want to send a quick note or establish a direct peer-to-peer connection, you have multiple options for private messaging.

1. Sending Private Messages and Opening Query Windows

If you want to communicate with another user outside of a public channel view, you can send direct messages or open a dedicated query window.

1. Using /msg:
2. You can send a direct message to another user without switching windows by typing:

Plaintext

1. The recipient will see the message prefixed with your nickname, but it will not be broadcast to the rest of the channel.
2. 
   
3. Opening a Query Window:
4. Most modern IRC clients allow you to open a separate, private conversation tab or window (known as a "query"). You can usually open a query by double-clicking a user's nickname in the channel list or by typing:

Plaintext

1. Once the query window is open, any text you type into it is automatically sent directly to that user as a private message.

2. Using DCC CHAT for Direct Peer-to-Peer Communication

For advanced communication outside standard server message routing, AustNet supports DCC (Direct Client-to-Client) CHAT.

1. How it Works: Unlike standard private messages which route through the IRC server network, DCC CHAT establishes a direct, encrypted or unencrypted TCP connection straight between your IP address and the recipient's IP address.
2. Initiating a Chat: You can request a direct peer session using your client's command syntax (often /dcc chat Nickname).
3. Accepting a Connection: When someone initiates a DCC chat with you, your client will prompt you to accept or decline the incoming connection. Once accepted, a separate direct window opens where data bypasses the IRC servers entirely.
4. Important Security Note: Because DCC CHAT connects directly to another user's IP address, your actual IP address is revealed to them, bypassing network hostmask cloaks (like +x). Use DCC CHAT only with trusted peers.