Common newcomer mistakes
The things everybody gets wrong at first, and how to fix them.
Operators only. This section is for IRC operators.
| What happened | Why | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| I typed a command and it appeared as a message | Commands start with /. Without the slash it is just text. | Type / first. |
| My message did not appear | The room may be moderated, or you are banned, or the language filter stopped it. | Look in Status, or ask an operator. |
| I pasted my password in a room | Everyone could read it. | Change it now with /ns SET PASSWD newpassword, then see Identify and protect. |
| I cannot get into a room | It may be invite only, full, keyed or you are banned. | See Join a room. |
| My nickname changed to something odd | You did not identify in time, so the network protected the name. | /ns IDENTIFY password. |
| Nobody answered | It is quiet right now. | Wait, try another room, or leave a memo. |
| I left by mistake | The tab says "You left" with a Rejoin button. | Click Rejoin. |
| My room is gone | Rooms that are not registered vanish when empty. | Register it. |
| I got kicked | An operator asked you to leave. | Come back politely, or ask why in private. |
Still stuck? Open the FAQ or ask in a room.
More in Start here
- Getting good answersHow to ask so people can help you.
- Beginner questionsShort answers to what newcomers ask most.
- Welcome checklistTick these off over your first week.
- How to read this Help CenterHow commands, keys and menu names are written here.
- GlossaryShort definitions of the words used in this Help Center.
- What is ConferenceRooms.org?The network, the Web Chat, rooms and services in plain words.
- New to group chat?A friendly introduction for anyone who has never used chat rooms.
- Quick startFrom zero to your first message, then your first room.