Jabber Instant Messaging Technology

Mar 26, 2008 16:06 GMT  ·  By

Online messaging or chat is a very common way of communication through Internet. There are many free instant messaging services that are used by communities having a high number of people. Jabber is an interesting communication technology having unique features as compared to other instant messaging systems. Based on stable standards for communications in real time, Jabber provides the user with a high degree of information security and confidentiality.

If you do not want to install your own Jabber server, there are many free Jabber services available. You will need only a client to be able to have online discussions. Jabber instant messaging clients are made with various programming languages like C++, Python, Java, Javascript, PHP, Flash and could run as standalone applications, browser add-ons or as client side or server side programs. The most convenient Jabber clients from their usability and multiple operating systems compatibility point of view are made with Javascript (runs on client side) or Java.

SamePlace suite is a Firefox add-on that allows you to connect to Jabber instant messaging services directly from your browser and is independent of the operating system you may use. It provides you the possibility to connect to your own Jabber server or to an existing service like GTalk, Twitter and more. This Firefox add-on is very easy to configure and if you know to program in Javascript, it could also be modified to better suit your needs.

Another Jabber client made with Javascript (based on Ext and Prototype Libraries) can be used in any web browser Javascript enabled. It has a user interface that is very familiar to any user because it makes the web browser based instant messenger to look like a desktop application.

The Javascript Jabber Client provides also the possibility of performing tabbed chats, sending WYSYWYG messages, changing the user interface elements colors by editing the corresponding code and more. The main advantages of Jabber clients made with Javascript are the universal compatibility with any web browser and the simplicity in script installation and customization.