Sharing Files in MSN Messenger?

[ja83]

Hello

Whenever I'm online using instant messaging programs (MSN messenger) with friends, I am not allowed to share files with my friends. I think it is my router firewall, but I'm not sure. How can I share files with my friend, but not let "hackers" into my computer? Any ideas will be appreciated.
P.S.-I have a no name router my DSL company let me use.

Thank You
-Joe.A+

[Byte 2.0]

The router most likly has a built in Nat Router that needs to have a small pin hole put in to allow your MSN messager.

I did a few searches and found
http://messenger.msn.com/support/kno...s.asp?client=1

it is a known issue, it seems to be the fix should be kinda easy but they don't list the ports needed by the MSN program.

Firewalls If you are on a local area network behind a firewall (for example, on a corporate network), you may not be able to make a phone call from your computer or send a file to someone outside the firewall.

File Transfer If you use Internet connection sharing, you will not be able to send files using MSN Messenger. You will be able to receive them, but not send them.

I use ICQ myself, yes it would have the same problem but you can get all the port info on the website and you can even assign custom ports with it.

[bailey]

ok :

so how would one find out what ports need to be opened for this to all work.

[Redo40]

This was in the help section of MSN Messenger.

For file transfer

Open as many TCP ports as you can between 6891 and 6900.
Configure the TCP ports so that sockets on a port remain open for an extended period of time.
Note

If you are using a network address translator (NAT), file transfer will not work unless you have a Universal Plug and Play NAT (UPnP NAT). If you are not sure what type of NAT you have, check with your computer manufacturer or NAT vendor

[bailey]

ok, thanks
that might work for file transfers, but what if I wanted to do live chat with video also

[reboot]

This is for a D-Link router, but the basic instructions are the same:
http://support.dlink.com/faq/view.as...4%20/%20DI-764
Excellent resource for Messnger and routers: http://www.compusmart.ab.ca/mikes/lvideo7.html

[cobra]

http://support.microsoft.com/?kbid=278887

[Redo40]

Getting MSN to work with Linksys router