So I've been wanting to setup an IRC server for a few friends and myself, but not too sure were to start and what I'll need exactly. Usually I'm on top of things like this, but I've never messed with IRC so I apologize for all the questions. I've found some tutorials, but the ones I've seen seem outdated.
I'm wanting an IRC server that will encrypt the data so that nothing is being sent out in plain text and can be connected to from anywhere. What OS do you guys recommend for it (I already have a laptop laying around with Ubuntu 12.04 server on it), what IRC server to use, and do I need to use a domain (which isn't an issue for me) or can I just use IP addresses (what I'd prefer to do)? If you do find an article that isn't outdated, that would be good enough as a response. Thanks in advance.
I'd prefer to setup my own. Is it really that difficult? I'm experienced with Servers (Linux & Windows), working with networks, and love using the terminal.
It isn't really that hard. But I think that it's a waste, there are hundreds of other networks out there, and most of them probably support what you want with a few modes enabled. Here is a post on modes for Rizon, might be similar for other networks. https://forum.rizon.net/showthread.php?27-channel-modes&p=36#post36