How to Install ZNC on Debian Latest

ZNC or Zed’s Network Connection is an IRC bouncer that seeks to reduce the amount of traffic sent to the IRC server, give IRC users a way to keep a persistent connection, and allow IRC connections from multiple clients.

Here’s how you can install ZNC on Debian:

Step 1: Update your Debian System

Before installing ZNC, it is important to update your system to its latest version. Run the following command in the terminal:

$ sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade

Wait for the upgrade process to be completed.

Step 2: Install the Dependencies

After the upgrade is finished, install the dependencies for ZNC. Run the following command in the terminal:

$ sudo apt install build-essential libssl-dev libperl-dev pkg-config

Step 3: Download and Configure ZNC Sources

Next, you need to download the source code for ZNC using the wget command. Run the following command in the terminal:

$ wget https://znc.in/releases/archive/znc-1.8.2.tar.gz

After downloading the source code, extract it using the following command:

$ tar -xzf znc-1.8.2.tar.gz && cd znc-1.8.2

Then execute the configure script:

$ ./configure --enable-perl --enable-python

The --enable-perl and --enable-python flags are optional, but they will enable support for Perl and Python plugins.

Step 4: Compile and Install ZNC

After configuring the sources, it is time to compile and install ZNC. Run the following commands in the terminal:

$ make
$ sudo make install

The installation might take a while, depending on your hardware.

Step 5: Configure and Run ZNC

After the installation is finished, you need to configure and run ZNC. Start by creating a new user account in ZNC:

$ znc --makeconf

Follow the prompts to create a new user account. After the account is created, run the following command to start ZNC:

$ znc

If you want to run ZNC as a background process, you can run the following command instead:

$ znc -f

To stop ZNC, run the following command:

$ znc --shutdown

Conclusion

That’s it! You’ve successfully installed ZNC on Debian and configured it for your needs. You can now connect to your IRC server with your new bouncer account and enjoy persistent connections across different devices.

If you want to self-host in an easy, hands free way, need an external IP address, or simply want your data in your own hands, give IPv6.rs a try!

Alternatively, for the best virtual desktop, try Shells!