The IRC network is a subset of the Internet, usually having several servers connected with hundreds of subsystems linking to them. At any given time there may be 5,000 to 15,000 users connected. There are many potential uses for live on-line chat. It could be used to talk to colleagues or friends. IRC could be used for on-line teaching, consultations, business conferences, board meetings, or planning sessions.
Channels can have a limitless variety of themes.
These are channel operators or ops. They may perform various special channel functions. This includes the setting of the title or topic for the channel, kicking out unruly users, banning someone from joining the channel and setting a variety of channel modes. Connecting to IRC can be done through most types of Internet connection. The large commercial providers now allow chats outside of their proprietary systems.