iChat File Sharing

The easiest way to share files with another Mac user over the Internet is to use iChat, the instant messaging software that's built-in to Mac OS X. iChat works through an Internet connection. It knows when people in your Buddy List are online and shows their names in the Buddy List window (shown below).

Tip

If you don't see your Buddy List, from iChat's Window menu, choose "Buddy List." Or press Command 1.

iChat isn't just for pals and fun. Lots of serious business gets done through iChat, both as an instant communication tool and as a way to share files.

You can only send one file at a time through iChat, so if you have more than one, put them all into one folder. Better yet, make an archive, as explained on the previous page.

To copy a file to someone in your Buddy List:

1.	Drag the file on top of a buddy name in the list, as shown below. As you drag a file on top of a buddy name, the name area highlights with a bold outline.
2.	An alert message opens on the buddy's computer (below-left). The buddy clicks the message to open an "Incoming File Transfer" window that identifies the file being sent. The buddy clicks "Save File" (below-right) to accept the transfer. The transferred file is saved to the buddy's Desktop (assuming that's where your Buddy's received files are automatically saved; see the next page).

To change the location where iChat file transfers are automatically saved:

1.	From the iChat menu, choose "Preferences...."
2.	Click the "General" icon in the preferences toolbar.
3.	From the pop-up menu shown below, choose the location where you want to save incoming file transfers.

Encrypt iChat Messages and Files

If both you and your buddy are .Mac members and you use .Mac buddy names, you can make sure your file transfers, video chats, audio chats, and text messages are secure when you use iChat.

To turn on encryption:

1.	From the iChat menu, choose "Preferences...."
2.	Click the "Accounts" icon in the toolbar.
3.	In the "Accounts" list, choose the .Mac account you want to secure.
4.	Click the "Security" tab.
5.	Click the "Enable" button.

If both parties enable iChat encryption, all communication is sent securely through the .Mac servers.