Abstract: A realtime electronic communications system utilizes an instant-messaging server. A first computer includes a first instant-messaging client. The first client is adapted for logging the first computer in to the server, and communicating to the server connecting information of the first computer. A second computer includes a second instant-messaging client. The second client is adapted for logging the second computer in to the server, and communicating to the server connecting information of the second computer. An external device is operatively connected to the second computer. Respective connecting information of the first and second computers is utilized for effecting realtime peer-to-peer communication between the first and second computers, whereby the first computer interfaces with the external device in realtime.