During the 2006 - 2007 Academic year, Jabber, a new Instant Messaging (IM) or chat technology will be made available. Some people use the analogy that Jabber is "the Linux of instant messaging" - an open, secure, ad-free alternative to consumer IM services like AIM, ICQ, MSN, and Yahoo. Watch for more info about Jabber, coming soon.
What can I do with Jabber?
Jabber can be used to talk with other people who use Jabber and participate in Jabber chat rooms. You can also chat with users of some other IM services. Examples for using Jabber include:
- Instructors may set up chat rooms for use by students registered for a particular course.
- Students may chat with other members of a project team
- Staff from several schools may set up a chat for sharing information about new technology developments
Who will be able to use Jabber?
Jabber will be available to all faculty, staff, and students who have an activated METNET account.
What will be needed to use Jabber?
To use Jabber each user will need to establish a METNET Jabber account. A Jabber client is also required.
Which Jabber client should be used?
Which Jabber client is best for you depends on what operating system you run and what your needs are. Some recommended clients are listed below.
Linux:
- Gaim
- Gabber
- Console Client
Macintosh:
Windows:
Web:
Numerous clients are available, Not all Jabber clients offer a full range of features, so buyer beware! A more complete list of Jabber clients can be found on the Jabber website.
Will there be a charge for use of Jabber?
Like other METNET services, there will be no charges to the users. METNET services are provided to faculty, staff, and students of the METNET member schools.
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