Direct connection

From BitWise DocuWiki

Direct connection overview

BitWise relies on directions connections between users (data is transmitted directly without going through the server). Direct connections are more secure and allow messages to be sent and received faster than through a server. Without a direct connection, many of BitWise's features are unavailable, notably file transfers, whiteboards, profiles, and conferences. Only basic messaging will function without a direct connection, with messages relayed through the server.

Automatic direct connections

BitWise tries to automatically establish connections through routers using several techniques:

• UPnP: Universal Plug and Play allows automatic configuration of routers by UPnP-aware applications such as BitWise. (Windows XP only)
• TCP Punching: This technique allows incoming connections by first attempting an outgoing connection to the same location.
• UDP Punching: This technique uses a third party to open a specific UDP port, and is used by BitWise for voice chat.

Direct connection failure

The following is an example of what you might see in a conversation window when you can't make direct connections:

The icon it the middle indicates that you couldn't directly connect, and the status bar message indicates that you are messaging through the server.

Direct connection resources

We offer many resources to help you configure direct connections if our automatic methods don't work for you:

• Direct Connection Setup Wizard (http://www.bitwiseim.com/docs/DirectConnectWizard.php): Receive customized configuration instructions based on just a few short questions!
• Direct Connection Configuration: Start here for an overview of what may be required to configure direct connections.
• Using UPnP on Windows XP: Microsoft Windows XP can control UPnP network devices (such as routers) for automatic port configuration.
• Router Setup: Instructions for manually configuring your router for direct connections.
• BitWise Routing Server Setup: The BitWise Routing Server makes it easy for many users behind a common router to accept incoming connections.