SkypeInstructions

Skype is mainly known as a voice-over-IP system, but it works perfectly well for instant messaging.

If you don't have a Skype client already, download it here: http://skype.com/. You will have to create a "Skype name" (i.e. login) for yourself.

Start the client. To communicate with someone they must be a "contact". Add as a "contact" someone who will be at the teleconference, e.g. Jonathan (jar208) or Alan (alanruttenberg). Click right on the contact and select "Send Instant Message...". Send a message. This will transmit your Skype name to that person, who will then add you to the group Skype chat.

To see the group chat, you may need to expose a "chats" list and select it.

Skype uses port 80 (http), so it penetrates most firewalls.