So I see you all are having trouble with getting a chat started...I believe mirc is the best possible way for you to gain the connectivity for everyone.
I would suggest actually downloading the client (if you have already done this, good), you can obtain it @
http://www.mirc.org.
Make sure to write down the install directory you saved the install program in. Now click on the Start Button, then the "Run..." button. Now click on Browse, navigate to the directory you installed "mirc617.exe". Select it, no click on "Ok" This will install the program.
After it is installed, a link on your desktop should appear. Double click on the mIRC32 Icon. This will start the program.
Once the program loads; click the evaluate button and start your 30day trial. (Once the trial is over, the program will still function, the donation is only a request if you find it useful)
In my next steps I include links to screenshots I have provided to help navigate through this process.
1. Next goto File > Select Server
1.
http://djbry.temp.powweb.com/mirc0.jpg
2. Once that dialog is open, Select Random EFNET server from the drop downlist (EFNET is the most reliable and often used network to connect to IRC)
2.
http://djbry.temp.powweb.com/mirc1.jpg
3. Now on the left side menu select the option of Connect (It should have a minus sign next to it). The screen on the right will change to let you select your "NickName" and what not. Fill in the options as you deem appropriate.
3.
http://djbry.temp.powweb.com/mirc1_5.jpg
4. Now click on the "Connect to Server" button located directly under the information you just entered. (it has the firework button next to it
4.
http://djbry.temp.powweb.com/mirc2.jpg
5. Now you will be connected to EFNET Irc network.
6. When the window pops up and you are connected, the is an entry box located at the bottom of the screen. Use the command "/j #whatever you want" to join a channel (chat room). I have included an example of "/j #gordon_lightfoot_chat" Then press the "Enter" key.
6.
http://djbry.temp.powweb.com/mirc3.jpg
7. Now you will have joined the channel "#gordon_lightfoot_chat" on the EFNET IRC Network.
7.
http://djbry.temp.powweb.com/mirc4.jpg
8. Now you can double click anywhere in the channel window and the operator menu will come up. You can there change the topic, member allowments, etc. The box on the right of the channel screen shows the users currently involved in the chat. If you have an "@" next to your nick name you have the option to change these settings. The first one who gets to the chat (or starts it) will have operator status ... as this is called. You can give other people the same status with the "/+o nickname" command in the bottom section (where you would type the text you wish to send to the chat room.
8.
http://djbry.temp.powweb.com/mirc5.jpg
9. Now if everyone connects to the "EFNET" network, and you agree on a time and channel name. Everyone who wants will beable to connect and participate! Remember "/j #" or "/join #" command will get you to the channel you want! A Channel must always include the "#" pound sign before it.
Refer to my images for the correct place and how to enter it".
I hope this helps.