The author isn't talking about IRC the protocol and probably wouldn't defend the more impenetrable parts of IRC interaction. He is talking solely about the mIRC

The author isn't talking about IRC the protocol and probably wouldn't defend the more impenetrable parts of IRC interaction. He is talking solely about the mIRC user interface with its familiar File, Edit, View, Help menus, colourful icons, beveled buttons, visible scrollbars, draggable windows, high-contrast focus indicators, etc.