Weechat
Self-HostedLightweight, extensible command-line IRC client
Overview
Weechat is a fast, highly customizable command-line IRC client built for efficiency and flexibility. It supports multiple protocols via plugins (IRC, XMPP, Matrix), offers robust scripting (Python, Lua, Perl) for tailored workflows, and features a modular architecture. Deployable on Linux, macOS, BSD, and Windows (WSL/Cygwin), it integrates seamlessly with terminal environments. With SSL/TLS encryption, spell checking, and real-time notifications, it’s ideal for power users seeking a lightweight yet feature-rich alternative to graphical IRC clients.
Key Features
- Command-line interface optimized for speed and low resource usage
- Extensible via plugins (multi-protocol) and scripts (multiple languages)
- Built-in SSL/TLS encryption and modular architecture
Frequently Asked Questions
? Is Weechat hard to install?
Weechat is straightforward to install on Unix-like systems via package managers (e.g., apt install weechat on Debian/Ubuntu, brew install weechat on macOS). For Windows, it works via WSL or Cygwin. Source code is available for compilation if you need a custom build.
? Is it a good alternative to mIRC?
Yes! Weechat is a powerful open-source alternative to mIRC. Unlike mIRC (proprietary and Windows-only), Weechat is cross-platform and highly extensible. It’s ideal for users who prefer command-line efficiency, though it has a steeper learning curve for those used to graphical interfaces.
? Is it completely free?
Absolutely! Weechat is released under the GNU General Public License (GPLv3), meaning it’s 100% free to use, modify, and distribute with no paid features or subscriptions.
Top Alternatives
Tool Info
Pros
- ⊕ No cloud dependency (local client, privacy-focused)
- ⊕ Highly customizable for advanced terminal users
Cons
- ⊖ Steep learning curve for users new to command-line tools
- ⊖ Requires terminal proficiency to utilize full features