Using `hostserv`

hostserv is the IRC service responsible for assigning virtual hostnames (vHosts) to users. A vHost replaces your real IP address or hostname with a custom one, helping protect your privacy and reinforcing your identity or branding on the network

Why Use a vHost?

Hide your real IP address or ISP-assigned hostname
Reduce the risk of targeted attacks or stalking
Display a custom host to match your project, channel, or community
Look more official or verified on the network

How to Request a vHost

The process to request a virtual host depends on the network policy. On Incorrigo Syx, registered users can request a vHost using:

/hostserv request your.vhost.name.here

Your vHost request will be reviewed by network staff. If approved, it will be assigned to your account and can be activated once logged in

To activate your approved vHost:
/hostserv on

Automatic vHost

Even if your vHost hasn't been approved yet, or you haven't requested one; you can use SASL which will automatically give you yournick.user-id.incorrigo.io before any other kind of vHost is set

When you connect to the network, even if you are not registered, your address is cloaked so that it can (a) be unique enough to ban you / have you on a channel access list (b) cannot be used to connect to you over the internet

Example of cloaking (1) your hostname (2) IP address
(1) lH-FDA01329.dynamicuserhost.btroadband.net (2) 1329FD22.9721A08E.A1916F92.3209DAC4.IP
This gobbledigook will still be unique for you, and your cloaked host still works (in lists and things) even if you are using a vHost

Your real IP/hostname will work, but no one else will get to see it

Commands Reference

/hostserv request your.vhost – Request a new custom vHost
/hostserv on – Activate your assigned vHost
/hostserv off – Deactivate your vHost and show your real hostname
/hostserv help – Display available hostserv commands

Tips for Custom vHosts

Keep it relevant and professional — no offensive or impersonating names
Use it to reinforce your presence in a project or channel
Log in first with nickserv before activating your vHost
If your vHost doesn’t activate, check with /msg hostserv help