EsperNet Webchat (The Lounge)
Where can I find Webchat/The Lounge?
How can I change Webchat/The Lounge options?
In the interface, click the cog icon in the lower left corner, then select "Options". These options will be stored in the browser's local storage, so you will not have to re-enter them each time.
Does Webchat offer SSL?
Yes. HTTPS connections are mandatory, you will be redirected if you try to access Webchat using plain-text HTTP. This behaviour is enforced using HSTS in line with security best practice. The SSL certificate is signed by the Let's Encrypt Authority.
Can I embed Webchat/The Lounge in my website?
Yes, you can frame Webchat using an <iframe>
element. For example:
<iframe sandbox="allow-same-origin allow-scripts allow-forms" src="https://webchat.esper.net/?nick=test...&channels=channel,mychannel" style="border: 1px solid #e7e7e7; padding: 0; width: 700px; height: 500px;"></iframe>
The following URL parameters are available to use:
nick=Borg
: pre-fills the nick input box with "Borg". It is possible to use period characters to insert random digits, e.g.user...
could become "user123".join=channel
: pre-fills the channels input box with "#channel". It is possible to usechannels=channel
as an alias.- Comma separated values are permitted for multiple channels, e.g.
join=mychannel,channel
Why should I use Webchat instead of Mibbit or another web client?
There are several reasons:
- Webchat has no ads or non-Esper branding.
- Webchat has a modern interface, is responsive (works on smaller devices such as mobile phones) and supports notifications.
- Webchat loads faster in many cases, and runs faster in browser.
- Webchat provides an interface closer to that of a desktop IRC client.
- Webchat's minimal interface makes it easier for users to understand what they are doing.
- Webchat is free and doesn't reserve any features for "premium" subscribers.
Where can I find a keyboard shortcut/command reference?
The application includes a help page which provides a keyboard shortcut reference, information on autocompletion as well as a command list.
What happened to the old Iris webchat?
As of 2018, Iris is no longer being actively maintained. We introduced The Lounge as a replacement in Q2 of 2018. This change brought with it a modern user interface, various security improvements and more features (such as a colour selection dropdown, WebSocket-based transport and notifications).
Are there any popular features that Webchat lacks?
- Autoconnect - Webchat does not offer autoconnect as this feature could be exploited by nefarious users.