How to TroubleShoot Google Talk

Google Talk is a program that combines instant messaging capabilities with PC to PC calls and voicemail. It's a very convenient way to keep in touch with people, both socially and for business. Like any other program, though, there are times when your Google Talk account won't work correctly. Before giving up completely, consider trying some of the more common ways to troubleshoot your issues. Read on to learn how to troubleshoot Google Talk.

Things You'll Need

• Google account

Instructions

1. Troubleshoot Internet connection problems by double-checking your firewall settings. Getting error messages that tell you you're unable to connect or that Google Talk is blocked frequently means that your firewall isn't configured to allow Google Talk access. Each firewall works differently, but for all of them you'll need to go into the Setting option and configure your personal firewall profile so that Google Talk is added to the Exceptions list.

2. Check your speaker settings before you conclude they aren't working. Google Talk automatically removes mute from speakers when a call comes in, so you should be able to hear ringing and the party on the other end. If you can't, check to make sure your speakers are turned on, turned up and not being used by another application.

3. Enable your microphone if you can't be heard. Make sure the mic settings are correct. Go to Start ->Settings -> Control Panel and choose "Audio Devices." Click on the "Volume" tab and choose "Advanced." Find your mic device in the Devices sections and make sure your microphone is both enabled and not on mute.

4. Unblock the ports that Google Talk requires in order to connect. This a common troubleshoot that many people overlook. The TCP/UDP connections need to be enabled before you can send messages or make calls and some firewalls block the ports. Enable TCP connections to ports 5222 or 433 for talk.google.com and UDP connections to any open port.

5. Make sure your Date and Time Properties align with the Google Talk server. If they don't match, then you won't be able to connect to the server. Open the Date and Time menu and set the correct date and time. Be sure to check the box that adjusts for daylight savings time and to select the correct time zone (otherwise the server may think your time is wrong). Click "Apply" when you are done.

Tips & Warnings

• Though it sounds inane and simple, the first thing you should do to troubleshoot your Google Talk account is to make sure you are actually signed in to your Google Account. Sometimes other users will inadvertently sign you out on a shared computer.

• Check with your network administrator if you are continually unable to access Google Talk. The site may be on your network's blacklist filter.