Netmeeting Problem

[Ryan_B]

I am running a 4 machine LAN through an SMC 4 port hub/router providing Cable modem service. When I run netmeeting, I can use chat(text) for both outgoing and incoming, but when I try audio and video, I can only get the outgoing to work. I cannot hear audio or see video from another person. Exact same version and SP2 btw. They can see and hear me fine. Have tried all the settings in Netmeeting, but can someone explain the "gateway" box listed in tools/options/general/advanced calling?
When I had a single machine connected to the modem directly everything was fine, since addition of router (SMC Barricade 7004BR) I can only get outgoing to work. Anyone familiar with the router setup??

[M_Six]

I haven't worked with SMC routers, only LinkSys and D-Link. But those two routers have built-in firewalls that block most ports until you open them. Netmeeting uses dynamic port assignment for the video/audio incoming signals. You basically have to open all the incoming UDP ports to get it to work, which negates the firewall. Stinks, eh? Sometimes it seems as if Micro$oft is intentionally creating security issues. A full scale firewall program will allow you to open a range of ports from a specific IP address only. That way you have some protection while still being able to use Netmeeting. The new cable/dsl routers are really low cost, which is why you don't get all the configuration bells and whistles.

I saw the bit about the gateway, but I never read too much about it. I believe it's used for getting through firewalls, but I think it involves a dedicated machine outside the firewall. Pretty expensive.

[Ryan_B]

Just finished reading more about my router, It has a DMZ option----(De-Militarized)--where I can set up a specific ip address with no firewall. Haven't tried it yet, but sounds like it should work on a temporary basis--then switch back after done with netmeeting.---Anyone else tried this?

[M_Six]

Yes, and it works. Sorry I didn't mention that before. Just remember to bring your PC back behind the firewall afterwards. While it's out there it's unprotected. Probably not a good idea if you have MS Money or other sensitive stuff on the machine.