For those of you still using windows:
First of all, we recommend extreme caution when connecting to the internet with any version of microsoft windows. This is more than just bias, windows users can contract viruses from simply connecting to the internet and viewing a website or email.

Find and download a program called "Mirc" ( www.mirc.com ). Follow the instructions from the website on how to install and configure it. If you can't seem to get it working, email one of the L.I.F.E. members from the "contact us" list to the left.
Like most applications for windows, mirc is not free. It costs $20 to register the program. Mirc will work without registering though.

For Linux users:
If you are running KDE or Gnome you can try Xchat, the L.I.F.E. recommended IRC client. To run xchat hit alt+F2 from within the GUI (X). When the window pops up type "xchat". It should then run the xchat program. If you do not have xchat then we recommend you download it at www.xchat.org . Like most Linux applications Xchat is free.

For both:
Run your IRC client. We will then be headed to a network called "Undernet"(www.undernet.org). Undernet is an IRC network comprised of many servers worldwide. The use of the Undernet is free of charge to all users.
Find your "Server" window or "Status" window in mirc. First we'll connect, type "/server us.undernet.org" . This will connect you to the Undernet and find an available server for you. In a moment you should see dialog telling you that you are connected. Once you are connected type "/join #channelname" (channelname = channel you want to chat in). You can pick a channel from the Channel Guide below.

IRC Help Channel guide:
#Linuxsupport and #L.I.F.E. - Our own help channels. We specialize in helping home users migrate to Linux. If you are very new to Linux or are just curious about Linux this is a good place for you. Here you will find people ready to help you.


The next three helpful channels can be found on the undernet. You can connect to the undernet by typing "/server us.undernet.org" in your server/status window.

#Linuxhelp - Probably the best Linux help channel on the undernet. These guys know everything. This channel is in many ways a step up from #L.I.F.E. and #linuxsupport in the type of help they can provide and the number of helpers that are availble.
This is a great channel to come to when you comfortable with running Linux and are trying some of Linux's other functions and applications. To quote "fozzie", one of the #Linuxhelp helpers: "We don't go for walkthroughs or the like, we are here to help, if you have a problem ask......politeness and manners go a long way with us." To join type "/join #linuxhelp"

#Whiskey - Another fine Linux based help channel. Dion, one of the #whiskey helpers and viking667 the founder are also a members of L.I.F.E. . These are smart folks and they can generally help out with many problems or questions. To join type "/join #whiskey".

#Linuxnewbie - Another fine Linux help channel where new users are made to feel welcome. In my opinion these folks have a really great attitude that is the very spirit of Linux and the Open Source philosophy. To join type "/join #linuxnewbie".

#linux - Don't go here. Please understand that just because a channel has the name "Linux" in their title does not mean they are willing to help you. This channel is NOT a help channel and is for advanced and expert level Linux users. IT IS NOT FOR NEW USERS AT ALL!!
We recommend that you do not enter this channel until you have read the FAQ for #linux and are ready to abide by their rules. Please don't give up!

We also recommend that you when use the channels listed above that you maintain a polite attitude. Please remember that the helpers in these channels are unpaid volunteers and are helping you out of kindness.