ZNC
Self-HostedOpen-source IRC bouncer for persistent 24/7 connections
Overview
ZNC is a self-hosted IRC bouncer that keeps you connected to IRC networks round-the-clock, even when your client is offline. It stores messages sent while you’re away and syncs them to your client upon reconnection. Features include SSL/TLS encryption, multiple user accounts, a modular system for extending functionality (e.g., logging, auto-reply), and compatibility with all major IRC clients. Deployment is flexible—install via package managers, Docker, or source on Linux/BSD/macOS, making it ideal for users who want full control over their IRC presence.
Self-Hosting Resources
Below is a reference structure for docker-compose.yml.
⚠️ Do NOT run blindly. Replace placeholders with official values.
version: '3'
services:
znc:
image: <OFFICIAL_IMAGE_NAME>:latest
container_name: znc
ports:
- "8080:<APP_INTERNAL_PORT>"
volumes:
- ./data:/app/data
restart: unless-stopped Key Features
- 24/7 persistent IRC network connections
- Modular architecture for custom plugins
- SSL/TLS encryption for secure communication
- Multiple user account support
Frequently Asked Questions
? Is ZNC hard to install?
ZNC is accessible for most users: it can be installed via package managers (apt, yum) on Linux, Docker for containerized deployment, or source code for custom builds. The web-based configuration interface simplifies setup for beginners, though manual module configuration may require basic technical knowledge.
? Is it a good alternative to IRCCloud?
Yes—ZNC is a self-hosted alternative to IRCCloud, offering similar core bouncer features (persistent connections, message storage) but with full data control and no subscription fees. Unlike IRCCloud’s cloud-based model, ZNC lets you host your own instance for complete privacy.
? Is it completely free?
ZNC is 100% free and open-source under the GNU General Public License v2. There are no hidden fees, subscriptions, or premium tiers—all features are available to self-hosters at no cost.
Top Alternatives
People Also Ask about ZNC
Tool Info
Pros
- ⊕ Privacy-focused self-hosting (full data control)
- ⊕ No subscription fees (completely free)
- ⊕ Extensible via community-built modules
Cons
- ⊖ Requires server setup and maintenance
- ⊖ Steeper learning curve for advanced configuration