znc

Run the initial setup

$ znc [[-c|--makeconf]]

$ znc

$ sudo [[-u|--user]] znc znc [[-c|--makeconf]] [[-d|--datadir]] /var/lib/znc

$ systemctl enable znc --now

znc [options]

--help
    Show help message and exit.

--version
    Show version information and exit.

--datadir path
    Specify the data directory. Defaults to ~/.znc.

--pidfile path
    Specify the PID file path.

--foreground
    Run ZNC in the foreground.

--debug
    Enable debug output.

--admin
    Admin mode (only allow connections from localhost).

--makeconf
    Create a new configuration file.

--allow-ipv6
    Allow IPv6.

--listenport port
    Specify the port to listen on for incoming connections.

--config path
    Path to the ZNC configuration file.

ZNC is an IRC bouncer that sits between an IRC client and an IRC server. It allows users to stay connected to IRC even when their client is disconnected. ZNC operates as a daemon, maintaining connections to IRC servers and providing a consistent connection point for clients. This offers several advantages: users don't miss messages while offline, ZNC can log conversations, and it can provide a level of anonymity.

ZNC supports a wide range of modules that extend its functionality, including support for TLS encryption, web interfaces, and advanced user management. It's configurable through a command-line interface and often a web interface provided by a module. Each user gets their own ZNC process and configuration. ZNC's modular design makes it a very flexible and powerful tool for IRC users.

ZNC requires careful configuration to ensure security. Make sure to set strong passwords and properly configure user permissions.

ZNC's configuration is stored in a file, typically ~/.znc/configs/znc.conf. This file can be edited manually or through the ZNC web interface (if enabled).

The configuration includes settings for users, servers, modules, and general ZNC behavior.

ZNC offers a wide variety of modules to extend functionality. Popular modules include webadmin (for a web-based interface), log (for logging conversations), and perform (for automatically executing commands upon connecting to a server).

ZNC was originally developed as a more advanced and flexible alternative to other IRC bouncers. It has grown into a powerful platform for IRC users who require persistent connections and advanced features. Development continues actively with new modules and improvements being regularly added.

ircd(8)