Introduction
## IRC network
Our IRC network can be accessed with an IRC client on `irc.f-hub.org` via port `6697` (SSL only). It runs on the modern IRCv3 capable IRCd [Ergo.chat](https://ergo.chat). It therefore comes with built in history and multi-client connections out of the box and no additional [bouncer](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BNC_(software)) is required.
## Registering accounts
Accounts from F-hub.org are automatically registered on our IRC network can can be used to authenticate via SASL login. In addition it is possible to register independent accounts through `NICKSERV` like on other IRC networks.
## Channel history
Channel history is automatically logged by the network itself (via IRCv3 history standard) and stored for 30 days. It can be easily accessed by history capable IRC clients or alternatively [queried manually](https://github.com/ergochat/ergo/blob/stable/docs/USERGUIDE.md#history).
## IRC tutorial
If you are new to IRC, please refer to our IRC tutorial that explains basic features and [commands](/doc/commands).
## Recommended clients
[IRCv3 capable clients](https://ircv3.net/software/clients) are strongly recommended for accessing our network. For Android, [Goguma](https://sr.ht/~emersion/goguma/) is well supported and recommended.
We also recommend using [XMPP](/doc/xmpp) to connect via our [XMPP gateway](/doc/gateways). The best cross-platform desktop client for this is probably [Gajim](https://gajim.org/).
## Webclients
Our network includes an easy to use [Convos IRC webclient](https://convos.chat) for registered users. [Access it here](/login). Besides a modern interface it adds file sharing and pastebin capabilities. It has also built in easy access to our [Jitsi-Meet video conferencing](/doc/jitsimeet) service for each IRC channel.
In addition we offer unregistered access via a basic [KiwiIRC webclient](https://irc.freegamedev.net/kiwiirc). And you can also connect with our [ConverseJS XMPP web-client](https://converse.f-hub.org).
## Gateways
Our IRC network also offers gateway access from federated XMPP and Matrix accounts. [Learn more about this here](/doc/gateways). Please note that due to the federated nature of these systems chat-logs may be stored for a longer period on connected third party servers and the gateways themselves.