To join an IRC discussion, you need an IRC client, a program that runs on your computer and sends and receives messages to and from an IRC server. A directory of mailing lists, newsgroups, interactive Web chat groups etc. A searchable directory of mailing lists, newsgroups, and IRC chat channels. Selected lists are categorized by subjects for browsing. Subscription information and other details are usually given.
Many mailing lists have web sites providing information on getting on and off the lists.
Some mailing lists have archives searchable via web pages or ftp sites. The welcome message received after subscription usually contains details on accessing the archives. Most lists provide searchable archives Usually only recent postings are kept at the server 1. Searching the World Wide Web.