Whats an IRCOP?

IRCOP is short for IRC Operator (may also be called an, "oper"). It does not stand for IRC Cop, MircCOP, or Cop!

An IRCOp is someone who has an O:line on an IRC server. This simply means that they have the ability to use some server commands that are restricted from ordinary users.

The primary responsibility of IRCOps is to keep their servers maintained and connected to the rest of the network. When a server is linked to WyldRyde, it needs to have at least one IRCOp who takes care of it. Each IRCOp represents one server (although they may have O:lines on more than one server) and should be concerned with keeping that one server connected and working well. Of course, IRCOps are also on IRC to chat and have a good time just like everyone else.

In addition, IRCOps spend a large proportion of their time answering the same questions over and over again and again, mediating disputes, providing basic tech support to members, teaching users IRC commands, and battling spammers and Trojan bots.

The most important thing to know about being an IRC Operator is that most likely, you don't really want to be one. Being an IRC Operator is not a glamorous position. It takes a great deal of hard work, dedication, and most of all patience. The overall amount of time an operator spends on IRC talking to his/her friends is drastically decreased. To use an analogy, you no-longer get to play in the pool, you are the on who sits on the side watching others have all the fun. Take note, becoming an IRC Operator does not...

• turn you into a vigilante who can ride about in the night taking the law into your own hands
• mean going on mass /killing sprees to rid this world of corruption or people you dislike

If you still have an interest in becoming an IRC Operator please see, Can I become an IRCOp?.