Where can I download Windows Live Messenger?
Windows Live Messenger is a free Microsoft download at this link. 
What are the system requirements to use Windows Live Messenger for videoconferencing?
You will need Windows XP, CPU minimum 233 MHz processor (500 MHz recommended), minimum 800 x 600 screen resolution, Internet access, and a webcam.
Does it cost anything?
No. Once you have the necessary technology in place there is no incremental cost to use videoconferencing.
Why are you encouraging the use of Windows Live Messenger instead of (Brand X)?
Because products in this class are not universally interoperable, it is necessary to concentrate users into a technology in order to gain critical mass. Windows Live Messenger is the current Microsoft strategic product for the consumer videoconferencing maket. It is one of the first messaging products to demonstrate interoperability with an external cloud (Yahoo), further increasing the market penetration. It is free. It integrates well with XP and with popular firewall products such as the Windows XP Firewall, Norton, and McAfee. It comes bundled with some webcam hardware, including Microsoft's own webcam line which has some additional integration and ease of use with the service. It uses Unicode so it works with Devanāgarī or other Unicode-based writing system.
What is the difference between MSN Messenger and Windows Live Messenger?
Windows Live Messenger is a new upgrade and rebranding of the previous MSN Messenger service. It includes all of the functions of MSN Messenger plus additional functions. The rebranding is part of a broad marketing effort by Microsoft to incorporate the term "Live" in many products.
What is the difference between Windows Messenger and Windows Live Messenger?
Windows Messenger is a different product that comes pre-installed on XP. Some functions of Windows Messenger are interoperable with Windows Live Messenger. Development of Windows Messenger is being halted in favor of development of Windows Live Messenger.
Does Windows Live Messenger work with Yahoo?
Some functions work transparently between Windows Live Messenger and Yahoo. You can add Yahoo e-mail addresses (like all your other Messenger contacts) and you can see if they're online or offline. You can send and receive messages while you appear to be offline. And if you really are offline, your contacts can still send you messages that will be delivered next time you log in.
What kind of webcam do I need?
Just about anything will do, so your existing webcam is likely to work fine. If are buying a new webcam you could check the package to see if it mentions Windows Live Messenger specifically, as that may mean that it has some additional integration at the software level, but this is not essential. Microsoft's own LifeCam webcam line is tightly integrated with the software but you do not need to use this brand unless you prefer it. Here is an overview of how webcams work and what to look for when buying.
Does it work with Devanāgarī?
Yes. Windows Live Messenger uses Unicode, so it works with any language.
How do I find other Sanskritists who are using this technology?
Once you connect with someone who is using this methodology you will be able to interlink with others within that person's social network. You may also use public social networking directories such as spaces.live.com to search for potential contacts by interest. For more information you may send mail to Les@growthhouse.org.
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