NetMeeting, which is a feature built into each Windows based PC, allows us to connect to your internet-connected Windows-based computer for both training, tech support and updating.
The setup takes a few minutes and, once done, does not need to be repeated on that computer. Each computer in the office can have this feature installed, including the server or host computer! This is a safe method of connecting computers!
Windows 2000 and XP users: NetMeeting is already installed on your computer and only needs to be configured the first time you use it. Others may need to install this from their original install disks or download the software from the Microsoft web site: http://www.microsoft.com/windows/netmeeting
A more complete installation guide (that does not use graphics) can be found on Windows website at http://www.microsoft.com/windows/NetMeeting/Corp/reskit/Chapter1/default.asp.
Step by Step Instructions
These instructions are very simple to follow. Please review them completely before starting so you are familiar with the setup. Most of these steps only need to be done once.
- On your task bar click Start, or press the Windows key on your keyboard, select Run, and type in conf, as shown here. Click OK.
- The splash screen below then appears. Click Next.
- In the next dialog, enter your First name, Last name and E-mail. The rest can remain blank, and then click Next. We have typed in same example data to use for this chapter.
- In the dialog below uncheck both and click Next.
- In the next dialog, specify your network connection, and then click Next. Since we are connected via the internet, make sure the third selection, Cable, xDSL or ISDN, should be used.
- If you don't want shortcuts to NetMeeting on your desktop or your Quick Launch bar, clear the appropriate check boxes. At the very least check off the first option. Click Next.
- If a sound card is installed in the computer, NetMeeting starts the Audio Tuning Wizard. Since we will not be using audio, click Next at both dialogs.
- If your computer does not have a sound card, as happens with many business computers, you will get the dialog below.
- There may be other set-up dialogs not pictured here. Basically, they will not be used so dismiss them as they appear.
- Click the Tools menu selection and then select
Options. The tabbed pane
below
appears. On the General tab
make sure the two selections in red are checked.
- Next, click on the Security tab. Both selections in General are checked. Click OK.
- Next, enter the IP address as
shown
in the top field. Then, click the Phone
icon to
form the connection. You will need to enter the correct password in the
dialog. If properly connected two names appear in the Name section (as shown below, with
you being "Sample Client").
- Click the Tools menu selection and then select Sharing. Alternately you can press Ctrl+S on the keyboard.
- In the Share Programs section, click on Desktop and
then click Share. Then Control section on the
bottom click Allow Control
and check Automatically accept
requests or control.
Note: After clicking Allow Control
the Prevent Control option
takes its place. When done click Close.
The Netmeeting now is functioning and we can see your desktop. We will be able to take control anytime. However, only one person can control the mouse at a time. If you want to take control simple press the spacebar to have mouse cntrol returned to you.
To end the Netmeeting connection simple click the hang up icon the the Netmeeting pane. If this pane is not visible it may have been minimized and now resides on the task bar. Simply click on it to bring it forward.