Here's how to download the software and join the chat: 

Download the latest IRC chat software compatable with your operating system.

Install the program to a directory on your computer. 

While connected to the internet through your provider, activate the IRC program. 

When you open the IRC program, you'll see a window called "Options."

Enter the following:

IRC Servers - ALL

(next line) Rootsweb

Your Name (Please use your real name

Your E-Mail ID

A Screen Name you wish to be called - please use your real first name as your nickname. We can teach you how to change that while in the chat room, if you wish. 

A secondary Screen Name to be used in case someone online already has your name.

Then click on ADD

Enter the following:
 

Description:  Rootsweb

IRC Server:  irc.rootsweb.com

Port(s):  6667

A password is unnecessary.
 

Click OK

 

Click Connect to Server - 

 

Once connected, you will be in the "Lobby."  It may take a minute for the

connection, so don't worry.
 

Once connected, you will see:

Welcome to the IIGSnet/RootsWebnet IRC Network
 

You can then join whatever room you want.  MS folks meet in #msgenweb. 

To join that room, type:

/join #msgenweb

Hit Enter

 

If it's Thursday between 9:00-10:00pm CT, you should be in the chat room with everyone else!!