IRC Documentation · Intermediate
KICK command: remove a member from a channel
KICK removes a member from a channel when the sender has the necessary rights. This is a temporary moderation action. A KICK alone does not constitute a permanent ban and does not automatically disconnect the person from the network.
Dialova Team · Verified on
Syntax and Parameters #
KICK <salon> <pseudo> [:<raison>]| Parameter | Meaning |
|---|---|
| channel | Channel to act upon. |
| nickname | Member to remove; multi-target variants require server verification. |
| Reason | Optional explanation, visible to affected clients. |
Commented Example #
C: KICK #atelier Bob :Merci de respecter les règles
S: :Alice!alice@cloak.example KICK #atelier Bob :Merci de respecter les règlesNicknames, hosts, and text in this exchange are fictional. The client may display responses in a more readable format than the presented frames.
Possible Responses and Errors #
| Response | Understanding |
|---|---|
| KICK | Removal announced to affected clients. |
| Error | Typical Cause |
|---|---|
| 482 | Insufficient rights. |
| 441 | Target is not in this channel. |
| 403 / 442 | Channel does not exist or sender is not a member. |
Rights, Compatibility, and Precautions #
A lower rank may not necessarily act upon a higher rank. Hierarchies and protections vary; having a button does not replace server authorization.
Use a clear reason, without personal data or humiliation. A person can often return after a KICK: a ban, access restriction, or network intervention addresses other needs.
Frequently Asked Questions #
What's the difference with KILL? KICK acts on a channel. KILL is a network operator command that terminates a connection; it should not be confused with an ordinary channel tool.
Does KICK delete the person's account? No. Account management and platform sanctions are distinct mechanisms.
Sources & Verification
Examples use pseudonyms and fictional domains, except for explicitly documented connection points. Network-specific extensions and settings are noted in the text.
- Modern IRC — spécification du protocole client ↗Source Specification · consulted on 2026-10-29
- RFC 2812 — Client Protocol (2000) ↗Source Historical · consulted on 2026-10-29