I only have one server that I ever connect to irc.jpilot.com. As of last night, I haven't been able to connect to this server at all. Is it down?

Unfortunately, I am a novice so I can't make heads or tails of your directions. I don't even know how it works that I'm able to chat. Is it a common webpage that we're all signing on to? If someone could explain how this works that would be great. Pretend you are talking to a five year old who doesn't know the language. Thanks.