How to Configure Pidgin for Google Talk

Pidgin is a chat program that allows people to log in to their different chat networks and connect with their contacts at the same time. It is a freeware that can be easily downloaded online, and it uses less space compared to individual chat programs, such as MSN and Yahoo's Messenger. It also has a clean chat interface because Pidgin does not contain banners for ads. Google Talk users can benefit from using Pidgin because it supports other networks with plug-ins. These popular networks include AOL Instant Messaging, Jabber/XMPP, MSN Messenger, Yahoo! and MySpace Instant Messaging, among others. Like a regular chat program, Pidgin allows file transfers, offline messaging, account customization, addition of icons and Smilies, and notifications from different accounts. Also, the Pidgin versions 2.6 and up support Google video and voice chat--features that will soon be available for Windows.

Configuring Google Talk with Pidgin is easy and usually takes less than five minutes.

Things You'll Need

• Computer with Internet connection

Instructions

1. Open Pidgin.

2. Go to Accounts tab, Choose "Manage Accounts" and then select the "Add" option. The Add Account window will appear with several fields requiring information. In the "Protocol" drop-down box, choose XMPP.

3. Type your Google Talk username on the "Screen Name" field. Make sure you do not include the domain name. As an example, if your username is [e-mail], just type in Alexandra. As for the "Server," input the domain name, gmail.com. Enter your Google Talk password in the "Password" field and leave the "Local Alias" field blank. Check the boxes for remembering the password and new email notifications if you want to have these options.

4. Click on "Advanced" tab if you are using a proxy server that is preventing you from accessing Pidgin in your computer.

5. Check the "Force old port" box and uncheck the box below it that says "Allow plaintext auth over unencrypted streams."

6. In the "Connect port" field, type 443.

7. Type "talk.google.com" in the Connect Server box.

8. Input the protocol and proxy settings in the "Proxy type" field. If you
   don't know these settings, select "Use Global Proxy Settings."

9. Save your settings.

Tips & Warnings

• Check with Google Talk Help Center and Pidgin Help if you need assistance. Both programs have links for frequently asked questions and troubleshooting guides. Regularly visit Pidgin's site for free downloads of its latest releases.

• Be careful with your password. Do not check the "Remember Password" field if you are using a computer that is accessible to many users.

References

• Pidgin programs
• Life Hacker: Pidgin 2.6 Adds Google Talk Video and Voice Support
• Google apps