Shoutbox

quote:

---

Taken from the newsgroup microsoft.public.msn.messenger
Topic: MSN Messanger vs Windows Messenger

quote:

---

"Darren Bull" <d.bull@virgin.net> wrote...
Hi
1. Can anyone tell me what is the difference between these 2 products?
2. Are they fully compatible?
3. I was trying to communicate with a friend. I have the latest version of windows messenger and he has MSN messenger. He has a web cam but I don't. Is it possible for us to have chat on line using the keyboard and for me to be able to see him on his web cam although I do not have one?

Cheers

---

Greetings Darren,

1.  There are several differences, Most notably, MSN Messenger 6 has support for display pictures, custom emoticons, has a different interface, etc. whereas Windows Messenger supports SIP-based communications services, Exchange IM Server, etc.  Which one you use is up to you, and a matter of personal choice (and based upon your needs and likes), however one thing to keep in mind, Windows Messenger must still be installed on Windows XP in order for MSN Messenger to retain full functionality (Remote Assistance, Whiteboard, Application Sharing, etc.).  MSN Messenger is centered around MSN technologies (Hotmail, MSN Member Profiles, MSN Mobile, etc.) whereas Windows Messenger is centered around Windows technologies (Exchange Server, Office Live Communications Server, Windows Netmeeting, etc.).

2.  They are with some exceptions.  The 'Start Camera' option in Windows Messenger can only be accepted by users running either Windows Messenger or MSN Messenger on Windows XP.  The 'Start Webcam' option in MSN Messenger 6 can be accepted by anyone using any Windows version, but requires MSN Messenger 6 to be the Messenger client being used on both sides.  The 'Start Video Conference' option in MSN Messenger 6 is compatible with both MSN Messenger 6 and Windows Messenger, but requires Windows XP to be the operating system on both sides.

3.  And yes, you do not need to have a Webcam to see him, you just need to follow the rules in the above paragraph.  If he's using Windows XP, and uses the Actions menu--'Start Video Conference' option, you will be able to accept it, otherwise you'll need to download MSN Messenger 6: http://messenger.msn.com/Download
____________________________________________
Jonathan Kay
Microsoft MVP - MSN Messenger/Windows Messenger
Associate Expert
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/expertzone/
Messenger Resources - http://messenger.jonathankay.com

---