How to Use MSN for Video Chat

It is becoming increasingly common for Internet users to communicate with friends, family and colleagues and other contacts through instant messaging. Instant messaging refers to real-time, text-based conversations between users online. MSN Messenger, the chat client available from Microsoft, also allows users to participate in video chat. Video chat allows users to see each other; participating in video chat requires both parties to have either a computer with a built-in webcam or an external webcam.

Things You'll Need

• Webcam

Instructions

1. Configure your webcam (see Resources below for help) if your computer does not have a built-in one.

2. Launch MSN Messenger. Use your email address and password to sign in.

3. Click on "Actions." Point to "Audio/Video" and select the "Start a video conversation" option.

4. Navigate to your contact list. Highlight the username of the contact with whom you wish to video chat and click "OK." An invitation to begin video chat will be sent to the contact. Once the contact accepts the invitation, you will receive a confirmation message. Once the contact accepts your invitation, Messenger will automatically turn on your webcam and the contact will be able to see you.

5. Chat with the contact by typing text into the text field and clicking "Send."

6. Click on the webcam icon to end the conversation.

Tips & Warnings

• MSN Messenger allows users to speak into a microphone during video chat, eliminating the need to communicate through typing. If you microphone is not part of your computer, you must configure it (see Resources) prior to beginning a video conversation.

• To adjust your video settings, select "Webcam Settings" from the "Tools" menu. Move the sliders to decrease or increase brightness, saturation and contrast.

References

• Windows Live: Messenger Features
• Webopedia: Instant Messaging

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• Microsoft: How to Have a Video Conversation with MSN Messenger