To videoconference, you need a webcam, some video conferencing software, and someone to talk to.

Videoconferencing is becoming more popular in the workplace all the time, and it can be a great way to stay in touch with friends and family who live far away too.

For instance, you could have a 'family reunion' at Christmas on the internet, with your whole family logging on to the conference from all different locations.

What is videoconferencing?

Internet videoconferencing is the linking up of two or more computers so you can see and listen to each other live.

You set up a camera and microphone on your computer and send pictures of yourself over the internet to friends.

You can also do things like write and draw in a window and everyone else will see exactly the same thing without delay (well almost!).

What do I need to videoconference?

Depending on the hardware people can usually talk to each other via their computers if they have access to webcams and can transmit live video.

All participants should at least be able to receive video, regardless of whether they have a webcam.

You'll often find that newer webcams have built-in microphones.

What to do

First, you make sure both you and the person you want to conference with are connected to the internet at the time of the conference.

You might arrange this by e-mail beforehand or instant messenger.

It doesn't matter where the other person is located physically - you can conference with anywhere in the world for the same price - the cost of the call to dial in to your ISP.

Make sure that both you and the person you are conferencing with have working webcams and the ability to transmit live video.