How to Communicate With Others via the Webcam on Your Computer

Use your webcam to keep in touch with friends and family members.

The webcam on your computer and a high-speed Internet connection enable you to communicate face-to-face with friends and family members regardless of the distance. While a variety of applications can help you get the most out of your webcam, the steps to use each application are generally very similar.

Instructions

1. Turn on your computer. Make sure you are in a location that will provide ample lighting as dark settings can disrupt the quality of video captured by the webcam.

2. Open the web conferencing software on your computer. Windows includes the Live Messenger application built into the operating system if you do not have a third-party program already installed.

3. Type your username and password in the "Sign In" fields that appear. Click "OK" to log in to the conferencing software. Click the person you want to chat with in the "Contacts" window and click "Invite." Once the contact accepts the invitation the video chat screen will appear and you will be able to communicate with one another using the webcam and its microphone.

References

• Microsoft Windows: Use A Webcam to Bring Your Instant Messaging to Life