Help Topics

Nick Expiration

Registered nicknames that have not been used for 7 days are automatically purged and become available for new registration.

What Counts as "Usage"

  • Connecting and identifying (logging in) with the nickname
  • Being connected — your last-seen time is updated when you disconnect
  • Registering a new nickname (starts the 7-day clock immediately)

What Happens When a Nick Expires

  • The registration is permanently deleted
  • All associated data is removed: preferences, notify list, contacts, highlight words, nick colors, auto-join list
  • The nickname becomes available for anyone to register
  • Channel access lists that reference the expired nick are also removed

How to Prevent Expiration

  • Simply connect and identify at least once every 7 days
  • Each login resets the expiration timer

Important Notes

  • The purge runs automatically every 6 hours
  • Nicknames that are currently connected are never purged, even if their last-seen date is old
  • There is no warning before expiration — connect regularly to keep your nick

See Also

NickServ Overview · Connecting