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Mac 101: Transfer files with iChat

Why pay almost twenty bucks for file transfer programs like Anzan when iChat provides essentially the same technology for free? This gallery shows you how to use iChat to send files to your buddies. Just drag a file into the text entry field in your chat window and press return. iChat notifies your buddy that you're trying to send a file.

If your buddy accepts the file, the transfer begins. By making sure that your buddy gives the okay, iChat adds a layer of security to the system. No one will force you to receive data you do not want or do not trust.



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Mac 101

%Gallery-3118% Why pay almost twenty bucks for file transfer programs like Anzan when iChat provides essentially the same technology for...
 

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Kitty

I've always had problems transferring files using iChat...

May 17 2007 at 10:46 PM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
Patrick Gibson

I think the more intuitive way is to drag the file onto your buddy in the buddy list rather than into a chat window text entry field.

May 17 2007 at 11:48 AM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
Jeff

I have found it necessary to change the 'server settings' port from 5190 to 443 for reliable file transfers, as described here on Mac Observer:

http://www.macobserver.com/tip/2007/02/14.1.shtml

May 17 2007 at 10:35 AM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
Katie

Thanks for the info I'll try unblocking the port on my Firewall and see what happens.

May 17 2007 at 10:05 AM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
hans

to #5 and all:

You can change the default port of 5190 or whatever to port 80.

May 17 2007 at 9:39 AM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
Wojtek

Please note you need to have a properly routed port 7777 on a router/firewall, in order to have reliable iChat file transfers.

http://docs.info.apple.com/article.html?artnum=106439

May 17 2007 at 9:09 AM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
Katie

I almost always have trouble when using this feature. I have a friend in Texas who has the exact same computer and is running the same OS I am and we can never get a file transfer to work between the two of us. When we transfer any file it just shows up with a question mark or an error message. Very frustrating.

May 17 2007 at 8:58 AM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
sammusbi

I actually havent had much luck w/file transfers over ichat. maybe it's my router or something, but it takes FOR-EV-ER just to send a song or picture for me. anyone have any suggestions?

May 17 2007 at 8:47 AM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
ThunkDifferent.com

isn't already available with most IM clients. Does iChat have a spam filter and/or virus check before both friendly and business downloads?

http://ThunkDifferent.com

May 17 2007 at 7:44 AM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
Rollins

Spam much?

May 17 2007 at 7:29 AM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
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