(
Automatic
OPerator) An IRC channel host who moderates the topics, keeps online users in check and provides help for newbies unfamiliar with IRC software (mIRC, etc.). Whenever AOPs come into the channel, they inherit operator status. Operators (OPs) are similar to AOPs, but do not automatically become operators every time. Channel operators earn their status by being involved in the channel. See
SOP and
IRC.