Online chat can refer to any kind of
communication over the
Internet, but is primarily meant to refer to direct one-on-one chat or
text-based group chat (formally also known as
synchronous conferencing), using tools such as
instant messengers,
Internet Relay Chat,
talkers and possibly
MUDs. The expression
online chat comes from the word
chat which means "informal conversation".
[1]The term chatiquette is a variation of netiquette (chat netiquette) and describes basic rules of online communication.[2][3][4][5] To avoid misunderstandings and to simplify the communication between users in a chat these conventions or guidelines have been created. Chatiquette varies from community to community, generally describing basic courtesy; it introduces new user into the community and the associated network culture. As an example, it is considered rude to write only in UPPER CASE, because it looks as if the user is shouting. The word chatiquette has been used in connection with various chat systems (e.g. IRC) since 1995.[6][7]
Despite being virtual, chat can spill into the outside world [8]. There can also be a strong sense of online identity leading to impression of subculture and even the notion of online rape [9]. Compare Internet sociology.
The following are common chat programs and protocols
