How to Register a Nickname on IRC

On most IRC networks, nicknames are not automatically protected. Anyone can use your nick if you are not connected. Registering your nickname with NickServ prevents this. Note: EFnet does not have NickServ. This guide applies to Libera.Chat, Undernet, DALnet, and QuakeNet.

Step 1: Set Your Nickname

/nick YourNickname

Step 2: Register With NickServ

/msg NickServ REGISTER yourpassword youremail@example.com

Step 3: Verify Your Email

Check your email for a verification message. It will contain a command like:

/msg NickServ VERIFY REGISTER YourNickname verificationcode

Step 4: Identify on Login

/msg NickServ IDENTIFY yourpassword

Useful NickServ Commands

/msg NickServ INFO YourNickname     — view registration info
/msg NickServ SET PASSWORD new      — change password
/msg NickServ GHOST nick pass       — disconnect a ghost session
/msg NickServ DROP YourNickname     — unregister