Instant Messaging

Prepared by Craig Knott

In the past few years instant messaging (IM) has been kicking off in a big way. Many of you are probably familiar with chat rooms, well IM works on a similar principle, only you get to choose who you talk to.

In case of any queries or requests for tips, please write to techtips@wougnet.org.

Instant Messaging

Microsoft's dictionary definition is as follows:

Instant messaging n. A service that alerts users when friends or colleagues are on line and allows them to communicate with each other in real time through private online chat areas. With instant messaging, a user creates a list of other users with whom he or she wishes to communicate; when a user from his or her list is on line, the service alerts the user and enables immediate contact with the other user. While instant messaging has primarily been a proprietary service offered by Internet service providers such as AOL and MSN, businesses are starting to employ instant messaging to increase employee efficiency and make expertise more readily available to employees.

This method of communication is a lot safer than a chat room as you know exactly with whom you will be speaking, and if they do get offensive, you will always have the ability to block them for as long as you see fit. If you want to find out more on exactly how it all works, then follow this link: http://www.howstuffworks.com/instant-messaging.htm, it will tell you all you need to know.

There are essentially three main suppliers of FREE IM programs; MSN (MSN instant messenger), Yahoo (Yahoo Instant Messenger), and AOL (AIM: AOL Instant Messenger). They all do essentially the same thing, but each has their own little extras and quirks. With MSN, you can alter and change the background for each person on your list, and you can identify yourself with your own small picture. With regards to Yahoo, you can speak via a web cam or even send messages to people's mobiles. AOL also offers its own little additions such as integration with Outlook Express and email alerts on the latest news etc.

Installation and use of them is all very simple, but if you do come across certain problems, here are links to their help pages for quick reference:

MSN - http://messenger.msn.com/Help/

Yahoo - http://help.yahoo.com/help/mesg/index.html

AOL - http://www.aol.co.uk/aim/faqs/

A lot of problems people incur are caused by firewall problems; it might be wise to lower the restrictions on your firewall, if you have one, if all else fails. If you still have any problems, please contact us at techtips@wougnet.org.

IM is a great innovation allowing you to communicate with friends, family and colleagues from all across the globe - give it a go, you'll be glad you did!

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Featured on WOUGNET mailing list: December-28, 2003