How to Download Software Using mIRC

by Jennifer Claerr

Overview

mIRC is a convenient program for sending and receiving files. You can use a direct connection to complete the file transfer without being connected to an IRC host. However, unlike on the World Wide Web, you can't initiate a download in mIRC. Someone must send the file, and you must then accept it. There are also significant dangers associated with accepting files via IRC. You should only accept downloads in mIRC from people you know well.

How to Download Software Using mIRC

Step 1

Familiarize yourself with the hazards of using an Internet Relay Chat (IRC) client to accept files. These include downloading viruses, spyware and Trojan horses.
Step 2

Contact a friend to send you the file using mIRC. For best results, contact him by email or in person prior to meeting on mIRC to exchange the file. Ask for the exact name of the file he intends to send you.
Step 3

Instruct your friend to send the file by Direct Client Communication (DCC). Have him click the "Send" button, which looks like a yellow folder with a red arrow pointing to the right. Have him type your exact nickname in the field in the upper left-hand corner of the dialog box. Then instruct him to navigate on his computer to find the correct file and click "Send" at a time and date you have specified in advance.
Step 4

Click "OK" when the file warning dialog box appears if the file is arriving at the expected time. Verify the sender's identity by ensuring that his nickname is exactly what he had said it was. For example, if your friend said his nickname is Thomas123, ensure that you accept the file only from this exact nickname. Also, check the path of the file beneath "Save As" to ensure that the file name is correct. If the sender's nickname and file information match what you have agreed upon in advance, click the "Accept" button.
Step 5

Click "Open Folder" when the download is complete. Scan the file for viruses, then double-click on the icon.

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If you experience any problems with the download, ask your friend to resend the file. If the connection repeatedly fails, open the TCP port range used by mIRC (usually 6660 to 6669) in your firewall. You can also create an exception in your firewall for mIRC. Network routers can cause problems with DCC send and receive functions. Ensure that the IRC port is open on your router or use a different port for IRC. If you're still experiencing problems, visit the mIRC message board to get help from other users. (See Resources.)
If you experience any problems with the download, ask your friend to resend the file.
If the connection repeatedly fails, open the TCP port range used by mIRC (usually 6660 to 6669) in your firewall. You can also create an exception in your firewall for mIRC.
Network routers can cause problems with DCC send and receive functions. Ensure that the IRC port is open on your router or use a different port for IRC.
If you're still experiencing problems, visit the mIRC message board to get help from other users. (See Resources.)

References & Resources