Microsoft Netmeeting

Microsoft's Netmeeting is a free, easy-to-use utility for point-to-point videoconferencing. While it can handle multiple users, only two users can have video and sound going at any one time (with more than two users, the person who initiated the session controls who gets to talk). Basically, all you need is a P-133 computer with a sound card, microphone, video camera and a connection to the internet (we recommend at least 56 Kbps). You can find Microsoft's official System Requirements here.

The Netmeeting installation procedure is quite simple. First, it asks for some personal information. Then it asks for the server name (it will be "ils.ifas.ufl.edu"), the speed of your internet connection and whether you want a shortcut on the desktop or not. Then is tests out your microphone and speakers. Once you've installed the program, the only other option we recommend setting is the 'auto-send/auto-receive video' function. You will find a checkbox for it in the options menu, we recommend checking this option.

Once you run the program, press the 'find someone in a directory' button to see who is connected to the ILS server (double-click on a name to connect). If you do not want your name to appear in this list, you can go to the Tools menu, then Options, then General, and you will find a checkbox for 'do not list by name.' You can also contact someone directly by entering in their IP address (you can find your IP address by pressing the Start button, selecting Run, then typing 'winipcfg' and hitting Enter).