Best self-hosted Communication - IRC apps
IRC communication software.
11 open source Communication - IRC tools you host on your own server — with full control of your data and no per-user cost.
The Lounge
★ 6,274Self-hosted web IRC client.
Weechat
★ 3,341Fast, light and extensible chat client.
Ergo
★ 3,253Modern IRCv3 server written in Go, combining the features of an ircd, a services framework, and a bouncer.
ZNC
★ 2,114Advanced IRC bouncer.
InspIRCd
★ 1,328Modular IRC server written in C++ for Linux, BSD, Windows, and macOS.
Kiwi IRC
★ 980Responsive web IRC client with theming support.
Glowing Bear
★ 973A web frontend for WeeChat.
Quassel IRC
★ 784Distributed IRC client, meaning that one (or multiple) client(s) can attach to and detach from a central core.
ngircd
★ 568Portable and lightweight Internet Relay Chat server for small or private networks.
UnrealIRCd
★ 516Modular, advanced and highly configurable IRC server written in C for Linux, BSD, Windows, and macOS.
Robust IRC
★ 194IRC without netsplits. Distributed IRC server, based on RobustSession protocol.
Frequently asked questions
What are the best self-hosted Communication - IRC tools?
Among the 11 options, the most popular include The Lounge, Weechat, Ergo. Compare license, platform and popularity in the list below.
Is there a free open source alternative for Communication - IRC?
Yes — all 11 tools on this page are open source and you run them on your own server, with no monthly fee.
Where can I host a Communication - IRC app?
On a home server (homelab) or a cheap VPS from ~€4/mo. See the suggestions on this page.