Tech Tips

How to Set Up Computer-to-Computer Communications

by Stephen Lilley, Demand Media

If you have an Internet connection, you can download and install a number of free programs that will allow you to engage in computer-to computer communications. These programs will allow you to send text, picture and even video messages from your computer to someone on another computer who is using the same program. You certainly aren't lacking in options if you'd like to set up computer-to-computer communications on your machine.

Step 1

Download and install AIM. AIM is short for "AOL Instant Messenger," and was built previously only into the AOL Web browsing software given out to people who used AOL as an Internet service provider. AIM is now a stand-alone program that anybody can use for free, regardless of the Internet service provider. Once the program is downloaded and installed, create a new screen name for yourself and click "New Message" to begin communicating with other computers.

Step 2

Download and install Yahoo! Messenger. Yahoo! Messenger is a program developed by the same company that created the Yahoo! search engine. It operates essentially the same as AIM, and it is also free of charge. As with AIM, once you download and install Yahoo! Messenger you'll need to create a new screen name for yourself. Once this is done you can click on "Compose" to begin communicating with other computers.

Step 3

Download and install Google Talk. Google Talk is available as a program or a browser plugin which runs directly from your Web browser. Sign up for a new user name and password on Google.com and then click the option you prefer. You will now be able to communicate with other people who also use Google Talk as well as people on AIM from your Web browser.

Tips

  • You can also send photos, videos and other files over online chat and instant messenger programs.
  • Most instant messengers also support video if you have a Web cam.
  • Mac users can connect to Google Talk using iChat.

Warnings

  • Be careful about accepting files from people you don't know, always use an up-to-date antivirus program.

About the Author

Stephen Lilley is a freelance writer who hopes to one day make a career writing for film and television. His articles have appeared on a variety of websites. Lilley holds a Bachelor of Arts in film and video production from the University of Toledo in Ohio.

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