One of the easiest and most innovative ways of communicating today is called desktop conferencing. This technology is a practical way to communicate in that it can be done over the Web, with the convenience of staying at one's own desk. This communication tool also allows users to transfer data, share PowerPoint presentations and send text messages to all participants during the conference.

To set up a desktop conference call, one only needs a desktop computer that is installed with the required software application; an internet connection; a pair of earphones and microphone for audio; and a camera for display. Some operating systems are already pre-installed with the required software application. Otherwise, users can download from the internet any available conferencing software like MSN Messenger or NetMeeting for free or for a fee.

It is highly recommended to have a quality Internet connection with a speed of at least 128 kilobytes to ensure uninterrupted communication and efficient transfer of data. For activities and presentations that would require higher data transfer, like file or image sharing, presentations or videos, a speed of at least one gigabyte is suggested in order for the function to run smoothly.

Additionally, the host of the conference can conduct a one-on-one meeting with more than one participant. In the same vein, the technology allows a user to disseminate a message to a hundred or a thousand participants in a fast and near-seamless way.

For advanced desktop conferencing, participants can make use of the collaborative white boarding. This feature allows participants to share the same virtual board, wherein they can view, review and discuss from their own respective computers the same document, image, file or presentation in real time.



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