NetMeeting is included with Windows XP but it has been hidden away. To install it simply go to Run on the Start menu and type ‘conf’ (without the quotes), then follow the prompts. Set up your webcam first, (Tools > Options > Video) and when you can see yourself in the video screen (click the Start Video button) you can link up to your friend by clicking Call > New Call and enter their IP address in the To box. Your friend should do the same (they enter your IP address) and all being well the two-way video link should be established.


DEFRAG THE REGISTRY

I’m sure you know all about defragging your hard disc drive, to optimise your PC’s filing system and hopefully make Windows run more smoothly, but did you know you can also defrag the Windows Registry? This is the large system file that controls just about every aspect of Windows and like your data files it can become disorganised, which can slow your PC down. To defrag the Registry you will need a freeware tool called NT Registry Optimiser. It can reduce the size of your Registry by up to 10%. It does this not by deleting anything, but by making more efficient use of the space it occupies so it should be quite safe. Nevertheless I still recommend that you set a new Restore Point before you use this tool, and make sure that all of your backups are up to date.