Run the IRCPlus Python bots

Beginner · about 8 min read

IRCPlus hosts small Python tools under /downloads/python/. Browse them on the Python bots page.

1. Download

mkdir -p ~/ircbots && cd ~/ircbots
wget https://ircplus.nl/downloads/python/pybots.py
# or chanbot.py, herowars.py, NetworkScanner.py

You can also open the file URL in a browser and save it.

2. Edit the configuration

Open the script in a text editor. Near the top you will typically find:

SERVER — hostname or IP of the IRC server
PORT — often 6667 (plain) or 6697 (TLS)
NICK / CHANNEL — identity and target channel

Point these at a server and channel you are allowed to use. Scripts aimed at a private network may default to 127.0.0.1.

3. Dependencies

Many scripts need only the standard library. Others import packages such as psutil:

pip3 install psutil
# or: sudo apt install python3-psutil

If Python reports ModuleNotFoundError, install the missing module and retry.

4. Run

python3 pybots.py

To keep it running on a shell after logout, use tmux or screen:

tmux new -s bot
python3 pybots.py
# Detach: Ctrl+B then D

Warning Some demo scripts open many connections or scan networks. Use them only on systems and networks where you have permission. Misuse can violate network rules and local law.

Want to learn the protocol from scratch? Continue with Write a small Python IRC bot.