OK. So here we've got a bunch of web forums, [link|http://twiki.iwethey.org/twiki/bin/view/Main/|there] we've got a Wiki, [link|http://www.vtluug.org/mailman/listinfo/iwe|over here] we've got a mailing list, and now, we've got a [link|http://www.jabber.org|Jabber] server.

"What's Jabber?", I hear you cry.

Well, it's an open-source, advert-free, XML-based, instant messaging and conferencing system.

"Why not just use AIM?", I hear you wail.

On that basis, we might just as well use Yahoo! Groups and MSN Hotmail. We like to be in control of the facilities we offer. The Jabber server is administered directly by me. You can whinge and moan to the very chap who installed and configured the software.

Also, it's ours. Although I will maintain an open house policy, it should be quite clear that this Jabber server is primarily for the use of the IWETHEY.

"You sold me. How do I get started?", I hear you grunt.

Well, you probably want to go to [link|http://www.jabbercentral.org/clients/|JabberCentral] first and grab a client. I would recommend WinJab for Windows, and Gabber (for first time IMers) or GAIM (for those with existing investments in other IM systems) for UNIX. KDE users might enjoy Psi, a QT client.

The Mac and OS/2 worlds are closed books to me.

Next, you want to configure your client to connect to iwethey.org, port 5222. This is the standard Jabber port. It's highly unlikely you'll need to change it.

The very first action you should take is to add me to your roster. My Jabber ID (jid) is peter@iwethey.org.

The very next thing you should do is join the group chat, ZIWT. This is a protocol action in GAIM, and the multiple smiley faces button in Gabber. Pick a nickname, which doesn't have to be the same as your jid, and join the ZIWT conference on the conference.iwethey.org server. I'm usually there, but will be asleep at times usual for Brits to do that. It's very rarely empty.

It's a little like IRC, inasmuch as anyone can change the topic with /topic, or by typing in the topic box in your client, and you can emote with /me.

Join in.

Have fun.

Meet each other.

Message me (or email me at peter.whysall@ntlworld.com if it's looking grim :-)) if you get stuck, have issues, or even just questions.