And the download speed where you are looking? On what PC? How's the internet connection on both sides (dial up, ADSL, cable)?
And can you explain why you mention 2 webcams here, both on your PC and your laptop? The setup isn't clear to me.
Are there any settings in Windows Live messenger to limit the bandwidth used?
I don't suspect the firewall (on none of the 2 sides), but if you do, did you already try to disable it by way of experiment?
Kees
I am trying to figure out how to make my webcam show video a little faster and smoother. I am running Windows XP Media Center on both my PC and my laptop. I am using Windows Live Messenger on both ends. On the PC, I am using a Logitech Fusion webcam. On the Laptop, I am using a Logitech Quickcam for Notebooks Deluxe (real small, newer one). I suspect there is some kind of setting either within Windows or my firewall that is preventing a smoothe feed. Others with the same camera are getting almost real time videos from home.

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