IRC Operator - Definition and Overview

IRC Operators are users on an Internet Relay Chat (IRC) Network with privileged access. Sometimes known as Opers or IRCops (which is usually a pun on IRC Cops), these users are tasked with enforcing the network rules, and in most cases, rerouting the network topography for faster access.

Operators access and powers differ based on the server software being used, and the configuration of the server by the administrator.

There are two levels of operator status, Local Operators can only affect users on the server their access is on, and Global operators who can affect any user on the network.

For the most part Operators have the ability to issue a kill command that forces you to disconnect, ban (Known as k-line) you, and relink a disconnected server.

A list of operators on a particular server can traditionally be viewed in the MOTD, or by issuing the /stats O command.

See also

• IRC channel operator