Windows Messenger

[nixon]

All right, I'm having this problem with Windows Messenger. I seem to be unable to have one of these voice conversations, share files, etc., for some unknown reason. Am I behind a firewall? I don't know, must likely, but don't a firewall that I control myself, i.e. an ISP firewall directed at the network as a whole. So I was wondering what could be my problem, then. How can I establish a voice conversation and start exchanging files, even though I'm seemingly behind somekind of firewall or NAT device? I bugs me, really, because it's so ridiculous that I'm being rejected because of a silly firewall or whatever it is.
I would like to know how I can solve this, because I know it can be solved, WITHOUT screwing up settings that make sure my internet connection isn't impaired in any way. Basically: I want to keep my internet connection, AND get a solution to this problem.

I'm using Windows XP, by the way, which should make an overall difference, as far as I know.
Windows XP, overall, has disappointed me in a way, because one day my network just disappeared from the screen, while still being in physical existance, of course. Absurd, really - I didn't touch anything. I think they've changed some things, regarding network, and can you believe it, for some reason they're hiding Netmeeting!

Any input appreciated.

 

[Jeratain]

Are you on a router by any chance? I have experienced a problem with AOL Instant Messenger where if both parties are connected through routers, then the transferring of files cannot be done unless you use port forwarding.

I would assume the same could apply to MSN.

 

[nixon]

Yep, using a Cisco CVA122 router. Don't know what's wrong, I just tried again, didn't work. Also, I've tried before establishing a 'direct connection' with a buddy outside my ISP - a lot of my friends happen to live in the area, thus having the same ISP - where AIM failed, just like MSN does now. It never fails when connecting with buddies with the same ISP, sometimes we can even talk while the browsers fail and the internet is seemingly down. An internal network exists, but the same thing doesn't apply to those outside my area.

 

[cgannon64]

I think somewhere in my recent thread about firewalls CrackedCrystal said something to the effect of: Windows XP has a built in firewall. Check it out, maybe I'm remembering wrong though...

*sigh*...you having trouble with games too? join the club

 

[nixon]

Anyone!

Show me some professionalism, or are you just lousy amateurs?

Help is seriously needed, I would very much like to connect with my girlfriend.

 

[Jeratain]

Well, I've tested Windows Messsenger being behind a firewall while my other chatting partner is also behind a firewall, and we both use Windows XP. We were able to connect and chat just fine.

AIM however did not allow us to do that. So really, I don't know what the problem is.