How to make Video-Files small for a Website?

[Variable]

I want to add a Video to my website but (of course) the file is to large.
What program will get me the smallest file-size but still make it playable within the IE (with the usual plug-ins, I don't want to use DivX or this other stuff because hardly anybody has it)?
I used the WinMovie Maker to cut it and so the Video is in .wmv file format.
The file-size is something 2 to 3 MB (medium quality because with low quality the movie is soooo bad...).

cool°
Variable

[eagle1]

I don't know much about this but isn't the mpeg standard the one with the smaller size?

[Variable]

Could be but wich program can convert an .wmv file into an mpeg movie and is a mpeg movie playable within a webpage?

[Variable]

Isn't ASF that video-standard that is played using the WinMedia Player but that needs you to install an extra codec??

I already thought about using real but I really hate their player software (it really messes around with your system and I HATE that). And that's why I don't have their player software installed and try to avoid sites that use it.

[Variable]

I probably will go with mpeg (normal mpeg not Divx).
But what program do I need to convert the .wmv to mpeg? (the original un-cut files were avi BTW)
Are there any Freeware or Shareware programs that can do that or do I need something like Adobe Premiere to do that (wouldn't be a problem since I know someone who owns Adobe Premiere).

cool°
Variable

[grieg]

I use ASF format it has very good quality and loads fast.

[doctj]

You can convert divx to Quicktime movies. I believe a lot of people have quicktime software installed. I can send you the link when I get home if you're interested.

[RobRich]

I generally use RealVideo for smaller files. Real has been ported for most popular operating systems, thus you can reach a wider range of users than with the Windows Media format. Also, assuming you create a moderate bit rate file, then viewer with higher speed connections can directly stream the real file from your standard HTTP link.

All the free tools you need can be found at Real's site:
http://www.real.com

Good Luck,
Robert Richmond