Web Chat

Would you like to converse with other people from the comfort of your desktop? With online chat you can communicate in real time with people all around the world. In most cases, you don't need any special software, just your web browser. (For the best results, we recommend that you use the latest version of your favorite browser.)

The word "chat" may be somewhat misleading because you're not really talking to anyone, just typing and reading text messages that participants write. Once you enter a chat room, which is really a web page that runs special software, you can choose to just read the exchanges, known as lurking, or you can join in by posting your own messages.

Many chat rooms focus the conversation on specific topics, such as health, politics, football and so on. That way people with similar interests can find one another. Sometimes chat sessions lead to stimulating exchanges, but they can also be a waste of time. Be aware that some chat rooms are adult in nature. Exchanges can be sexually oriented, so parents take note. None of this should stop you from trying this electronic interaction. It can be a lot of fun and the price is certainly right--generally it's free--so there's little to lose.

The first step is to locate a chat room that interests you. At the end of this article you'll find some good places to start, or try an online search using the keywords "chat rooms." Once you access the website, you will usually be required to register by providing some personal information. You can use your real name, but many people make up a name. Not only does it conceal your identity, offering you some privacy, but it lets you assume a new identity. It can be similar to role playing, where you can be anyone you want. Therein lies some of the fun, but be aware that other people may be living out their fantasies online as well. "Wild Bill" might be a teenage girl. You should also know that if you don't sign in with a name, you may be assigned the default names Anonymous or guest. With these monikers, others in the chat room may avoid you.

After you choose your chat persona, you may also be able to select an image to represent you. These graphics, called avatars can be anything from a frog to a prince or princess or a mythical being. Although communicating online lacks the nuances we get when talking face-to-face, humorous graphics personalize the experience in a small way, and break the monotony of a text-only screen. Equipped with a name and possibly a character, click the Enter button and follow the instructions to choose a chat room.