A chat is a casual conversation. The term has now become associated mostly with online chat services or computer programs. Chats allow users to converse in real time rather than posting through emails or forums which can result in a delayed response.

What kind of chats are there?

There are various types of chatrooms on the market. The types are seperated depending on its programming language. IRC (Internet Relay Chat) was one of the original types. It was originally written by a man named Jarkko Oikarinen in the year 1988. Since starting in Finland, it has been used in over sixty countries around the World. It was designed as a replacement for the "talk" program. IRC is a multi-user chat system, where people convene on "channels" (a virtual place, usually with a topic of conversation) to talk in groups, or privately. IRC is constantly evolving. Another chat language which has flourished in recent years is Java. It is a programming language utilized to create applications that allow many users to connect in the same environment (chat session). The reason for its widespread use is that it is more stable and customizable than the older Internet Relay Chat systems. One of the latest chat technology is developed from Flash language. Flash allows for further customization and stability than Java chats. It is also known to be more secure than the Java chat rooms. In recent months, a new and more modern "add-on" to user chat sessions are the uses of video chat applications. This allows a user to use normal text based chat, but also add a webcam to the conversation to allow for live feed of the person who they are interacting with. This allows for a more pleasent chat experience.

Other types of chat systems?

There are many other ways besides chat programs to communicate with other individuals over your computer. The most popular are Instant Messaging systems. They allow users to create a contact list and be able to connect directly through their Instant Messaging application to the individual they are talking to. (the other user must have the same application installed). Some examples of the most popular ones include MSN Messenger, Google Talk and AIM (AOL Instant Messaging).

Why are chat rooms set up?

Chat rooms are set up to provide the interaction that users require in a live text based (or video chat) format.

Paid or Free chat rooms?

Most chat rooms on the Internet are provided for free. There are some exceptions, however. Some charge a monthly or per usage fee.