ngircd
Self-HostedLightweight, open-source IRC server
Overview
ngircd is a lightweight, portable IRC server written in C, supporting core IRC protocols (RFCs 1459, 2812, 2813). It offers SSL/TLS encryption, IPv6 compatibility, channel modes, user authentication via LDAP/PAM, and cross-platform support (Linux, BSD, macOS, Windows via Cygwin). Designed for easy deployment, it uses a simple configuration file and has minimal resource requirements—ideal for small communities or personal use. It runs on low-power devices like Raspberry Pi and integrates well with existing systems, making it a reliable choice for self-hosted IRC communication.
Key Features
- Lightweight & low-resource footprint
- SSL/TLS encryption & IPv6 support
- Core IRC protocol compliance
- User authentication via LDAP/PAM
- Cross-platform compatibility
Frequently Asked Questions
? Is ngircd hard to install?
ngircd is easy to install—most Linux distributions offer pre-built packages (e.g., apt install ngircd on Debian/Ubuntu). For other OSes, it can be compiled from source with minimal dependencies. Configuration uses a simple text file with clear comments, suitable for beginners.
? Is ngircd a good alternative to proprietary IRC services?
Yes—ngircd lets you host your own IRC server, giving full control over data privacy and customization. Unlike proprietary services like IRCCloud, it has no subscription fees and runs on your infrastructure, making it ideal for those who prefer self-hosted solutions.
? Is ngircd completely free?
Yes—ngircd is released under the GNU General Public License (GPL) version 2, so it is completely free to use, modify, and distribute for any purpose.
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Tool Info
Pros
- ⊕ Minimal resource usage (works on Raspberry Pi)
- ⊕ Easy to configure with simple text file
- ⊕ Open-source (GPLv2 license)
- ⊕ Runs on multiple operating systems
Cons
- ⊖ Lacks advanced IRC services (NickServ, ChanServ)
- ⊖ No built-in web interface
- ⊖ Limited documentation for complex setups