Changes to the Nickname Expiration System
Want a nickname that looks abandoned — or worried about losing your own? Here's how DALnet's nickname expiration actually works today, in plain terms. The short version: instead of vanishing after 30 days of non-use, a nickname is simply marked "Inactive," and someone else can then request it.
- When a nickname is marked "Inactive," any user registered for more than one year may request it via the users.dal.net portal (Users → Request a nickname).
- When a nickname is requested, the current owner is notified by email and can come online to claim it (by identifying to NickServ).
- If a requested nickname isn't claimed by the owner, services give one of the people who requested it a chance to register it.
- If more than one person requested the nickname, services randomly choose who to give it to.
/msg NickServ REGISTER a nickname, confirm it from the email DALnet sends — an unconfirmed registration expires within 72 hours. After that, just identify now and then to keep it active.Frequently asked questions
Q: How many nicknames can I request?
A: There's no technical limit, but remember others may want the same nicknames — don't request more than you could reasonably use.
Q: The email said I was chosen, but the site says my request expired. Why?
A: If services give you a chance to register a nickname, you must do it within two days; after that, someone else gets the chance.
Q: Must my nickname be registered for one year?
A: Yes, this is a requirement.
Q: Why are you helping nickname collectors/chasers?
A: Our goal is always to help real users. The new system gives real users a chance against chasers who previously just loaded a botnet to grab nicknames.
Q: What about frozen nicknames?
A: The same process applies, but frozen nicknames only become inactive after 60 days (instead of 30), and the previous owner is not emailed.
Q: A nickname wasn't used for 30+ days but NickServ INFO doesn't show it as Inactive. Why?
A: It's either frozen (60-day rule) or exempted — a few nicknames had a setting that prevented expiry and are exempt from this system.
Q: Can I use a script to request a nickname?
A: No — the system is for real users, not scripts/bots.
Q: Can an IRC Operator help me get a nickname I requested?
A: No, the process is automatic and operators can't interfere.
Q: I missed the email while on vacation. Can I get my nickname back?
A: The owner has 7 days to reclaim once someone requests it. If they don't, services give it to one of the requesters (expiring the nickname in the process).
Q: What happens to a channel if the founder's nickname becomes inactive?
A: Nothing — an inactive nickname still holds all its accesses (including channel foundership). Access is only removed if another user completes the request and gets the nickname.
The practical takeaway: just identify to NickServ every now and then and your nickname never goes inactive in the first place. New to this? See how to register and protect your nickname — or let a bouncer identify for you automatically.
This reflects DALnet's current nickname policy (verified 2026), based on DALnet Knowledge Base #273. For the official wording, see dal.net/kb/view.php?kb=273.