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IRC Documentation · Beginner

TOPIC command: read or modify a channel's topic

TOPIC reads or modifies a channel's topic. The topic helps visitors understand its theme or instructions; it is neither a private message nor a setting for the entire web page.

Dialova Team · Verified on

Syntax and Parameters #

Protocol syntax, without the client's '/'
TOPIC <salon> [:<nouveau-sujet>]
ParameterMeaning
channelChannel concerned.
new-topicAbsent for reading; last parameter empty to clear; text provided to replace.

Commented Example #

IRC Exchange: C = client, S = server
C: TOPIC #atelier
S: :irc.example 332 Alice #atelier :On parle création
C: TOPIC #atelier :Bienvenue, présentez vos projets
S: :Alice!alice@cloak.example TOPIC #atelier :Bienvenue, présentez vos projets

Nicknames, 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 #

ResponseUnderstanding
332 / 331Current topic or absence of topic.
333Author/date sometimes provided additionally depending on the server.
TOPICNew topic broadcast to clients.
ErrorTypical Cause
403Channel does not exist.
442You are not a member.
482Modification requires a rank you do not have.

Rights, Compatibility, and Precautions #

With a protected topic mode, only authorized members can change the text. The size limit may be announced by TOPICLEN in ISUPPORT.

Do not put secrets in the topic: it may be visible in lists, logs, or other clients. A link displayed in the topic remains a URL to verify before opening.

Frequently Asked Questions #

How to remove the topic? On the protocol, send TOPIC #atelier: with a last parameter empty; interfaces may offer a dedicated field.

Is the topic date universally displayed? No. Additional response or enriched display depends on the server and client.

Sources & Verification

Examples use pseudonyms and fictional domains, except for explicitly documented connection points. Network-specific extensions and settings are noted in the text.