To restrict open public entry and maintain tight control over who enters your channel, you can configure your channel to be invite-only. This ensures that unauthorized users cannot enter unless explicitly permitted by an operator.
1. Enabling Invite-Only Mode (+i)
To switch your channel into an invite-only state, channel operators use the standard mode command.
- How to set it:
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Once +i is active, any user attempting to type /join #channel without prior authorization will receive a "Cannot join channel (invite only)" notice from the server.
2. Inviting Users with /invite
When a channel is set to invite-only, operators must explicitly invite users who wish to join.
- How to use it:
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- What happens: The target user receives a server-generated invitation notice in their client window, allowing them to join the channel successfully for a single entry attempt.
3. Combining +i with ChanOP Access Lists
Relying solely on manual /invite commands can become tedious for busy communities. You can streamline access by integrating invite-only mode with your ChanOP access control list (ACL):
- Automatic Invites / Exemptions: On many networks, users who are registered on the channel's ChanOP access list (such as voiced users, halfops, or operators) automatically bypass invite-only restrictions, or service settings can be configured to grant exemptions (
+I) to trusted hostmasks. - Permanent Members Only: By combining
+iwith the Registered Only mode (+R), you create a secure channel environment where only authenticated accounts pre-approved on your ChanOP access list can enter.