Different types of communication software are as follows:
1. Email
Email stands for electronic mail. It is the exchange of text, messages and files through Internet. Message can be in the form of graphics, sounds, video clips or simple text. It is a fast way of delivering messages anywhere in the world in a very short time. Email can be sent, using an email software. This software is integrated in many suites or available for free on the Web. Email software can also be purchased from the retailer.
2. FTP
FTP stands for File Transfer Protocol. It is used on Internet for sending files from one place to another. It is specially designed for professionals. Audio, video, graphics and data files can be uploaded or downloaded using this protocol. Different softwares are available, which use this protocol for transferring files on the Internet. CuteFTP and WS_FTP are examples of FTP software.
3. News Groups
A newsgroup is a global electronic bulletin board system. People exchange information on a vast range of topics such as news, recreation, business, science, and computer. Newsgroup may require a news reader software. It is integrated in some operating systems, web browsers and email programs. It can also be downloaded from the Internet. Some websites provide built-in news groups.
4. Chatting & Instant Messaging
Chat programs allow users on the Internet to communicate with one another by typing messages. They are sometimes included as a feature of a Web site, where users can log into the chat room to exchange comments and information.
Internet Relay Chat (IRC) is a service through which participants can communicate to each other on hundreds of channels. These channels are usually based on specific topics. To access IRC, you must use an IRC software program.
A type of chat is instant messaging. With instant messaging, a user on the Web can contact another user currently logged in and start a conversation. Most famous is America Online’s Instant Messenger. ICQ is another commonly used chat program.
5. Web Browser
A browser is software that acts as an interface between the user and the Internet. It has the capability to understand HTML. It can display text and graphics. Browsers are also known as Web clients or universal clients.
The browser acts on behalf of the user. The browser contacts a web server and sends a request for the required information. The web server searches for the requested web page and sends it to the web browser. The browser receives information and then displays it on the user’s computer.
6. Internet Telephony
Internet telephony is used to talk to other people over the Internet. It is also called Voice over IP (VoIP). It uses the Internet to connect a calling party and one or more called parties using Internet telephone software. When the user speaks, Internet telephone software and sound card digitize and compress the spoken words and transmit it over the Internet to the called parties.
7. Videoconferencing
Videoconferencing uses video and computer technology to conduct a meeting between participants at two or more geographically separate locations. It is used for technical support, job interviews, distance learning etc. It requires a computer with microphones, speakers, video cameras and communication devices and software.
Web conference is a type of conference that uses the Internet, Web browsers, and Web servers for videoconferencing. Video telephone call is used to talk while seeing one another.
