Definition
NetMeeting is a discontinued Microsoft software program that provided real-time video conferencing, data conferencing, and instant messaging functionalities over the Internet. Introduced in May 1996, it allowed users to share applications and collaborate on documents. It was a part of the Windows system until the release of Windows Vista, after which it was replaced by newer applications like Microsoft Office Live Meeting.
Phonetic
The phonetic pronunciation of the keyword “NetMeeting” is: “neht-mee-ting”
Key Takeaways
Sure, here are three main takeaways about NetMeeting in HTML format:“`html
- NetMeeting was a pioneer in real-time collaboration tools, providing users the capability to share files, applications and even conduct video conferences over the internet.
- The software, developed by Microsoft, used a unique technology known as H.323 protocol for multimedia applications, enabling smooth transmission of voice, video and data.
- Though discontinued by Microsoft, it set the standard for future real-time communication and collaboration tools across the tech industry.
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Importance
NetMeeting is a crucial term in technology as it was one of the first real-time, multilocation communication tools developed by Microsoft. This technology facilitated online meetings, conferencing, and collaborative data sharing, supporting both audio and video feeds. Its significance lies in its role as a pioneer in remote working, virtual teams, and global collaborations, providing the essential infrastructure to conduct virtual meetings over the internet before the rise of more contemporary tools. Since it also supported application sharing, whiteboard, and text chat features, NetMeeting contributed substantially to the development of modern collaboration and communication software capabilities.
Explanation
NetMeeting was a technology developed by Microsoft that allowed users to communicate and collaborate in real time through the internet or intranet. The purpose of this technology was to facilitate virtual meetings, presentations, and training sessions in an online environment. It was equipped with features such as file sharing, text chat, whiteboard, and even application sharing, making it a comprehensive tool for businesses and educational institutions alike. These interactive features allowed users to work together remotely regardless of their geographical location.The use of this video conferencing software extended beyond online meetings. For instance, NetMeeting was also used to provide remote desktop support, which means technicians could troubleshoot issues and fix problems on a user’s computer from a remote location. It also allowed users to share applications, meaning only one user needed to have a specific software installed and others could use it through NetMeeting. Despite its discontinuation, NetMeeting’s legacy continues to impact today’s virtual collaboration tools.
Examples
1. Remote Team Collaboration: Companies with teams spread across different locations can use technology like NetMeeting for virtual meetings. This can include team meetings, brainstorming sessions, and even training sessions. Team members can share their screens, discuss projects, and work together as if they were in the same office. Microsoft, as a global company, is one such example where such a tool would come in handy.2. Technical Support: Help desk professionals often use tools like NetMeeting to provide remote assistance to users. Rather than trying to explain solutions over the phone or through email, they can take control of the user’s system and fix the problem themselves. For instance, Dell’s technical support team may use this approach to help their customers. 3. Online Education: Institutions offering online courses or distance education may also use NetMeeting. It allows educators to share their screens to present lectures or tutorials, and interact with students in real-time. Universities like Harvard, Oxford offering distant learning programs can benefit from such tools.
Frequently Asked Questions(FAQ)
Sure, here is a frequently asked question section for the technology term: NetMeeting:Q1: What is NetMeeting?A1: NetMeeting is a discontinued Microsoft application that allowed users to conduct real-time meetings or discussions over a local network or the internet. It featured capabilities for video conferencing, instant messaging, application sharing, file transfer as well as whiteboarding.Q2: When was NetMeeting introduced and discontinued?A2: Microsoft introduced NetMeeting in May 1996 with the launch of the Windows 98 operating system. It was discontinued as a stand-alone product in 2003, with its features being integrated into other Microsoft applications.Q3: How does NetMeeting work?A3: NetMeeting uses a coded protocol called H.323 for delivering audio-video conferencing and data conferencing across an Internet Protocol (IP) network.Q4: What features did NetMeeting offer?A4: Some core features NetMeeting offered include text chat, whiteboard collaboration, file transfer, program sharing, desktop sharing, and remote desktop operation. Q5: What replaced NetMeeting in more recent years?A5: Microsoft phased out NetMeeting with the introduction of Windows Meeting Space in the Windows Vista operating system. Other Microsoft services like Skype for Business and Microsoft Teams have since replaced NetMeeting.Q6: Was NetMeeting free to use?A6: Yes, Microsoft offered NetMeeting as a free feature with their operating systems. Q7: Can I still use NetMeeting today?A7: As Microsoft discontinued NetMeeting, it is no longer maintained or supported. It is recommended to use more recent, supported technologies for video conferencing and collaboration. Q8: Was NetMeeting available on all versions of Windows?A8: The program was originally released for Windows 95, Windows 98, and Windows NT, but it was not included with Windows XP and later versions. However, it was possible to install it manually on these later operating systems.
Related Tech Terms
- Video Conferencing
- Real-Time Collaboration
- Remote Desktop Sharing
- Data Conferencing
- Internet Locator Service (ILS)
