Windows Live Messenger
Windows Live Messenger (formerly MSN Messenger) is an instant messaging service. It was created by Microsoft. Windows Live Messenger operates with a wide variety of platforms. MSN Messenger was released in 1999 and was rebranded as Windows Live Messenger in 2005. Microsoft is now retiring Windows Live Messenger in favor of Skype. It will still be maintained in China. Microsoft will now integrate Messenger contacts with Skype. Current users of Windows Live Messenger will have until the beginning of 2012 to make the transition to Skype.
Features
Windows Live Messenger is a great functioning instant messaging service, and the newer versions offer many sought after features. Windows Live Messenger allows you to create a unique user profile including details about yourself as well as a profile picture. You can add contacts and then organize them into different groups on your contact list. The service also allows users to appear offline to certain contacts, or even to an entire group on your Windows Live Messenger friend’s list. This function allows you to appear online to unblocked contacts. Previous versions of Windows Live Messenger would prevent the blocked user from sending you any messages. Now with the Appear Offline function hidden users can still send you messages. While offline users can also send and receive messages. Window’s Live Messenger features an album viewer that provides users a photo viewing experience by sharing albums via SkyDrive and Facebook. Windows Live Messenger is interactive and supports slideshows, user tagging, and the uploading of comments onto Facebook and SkyDrive albums. Windows Live Messenger has also integrated many social media services including Facebook, MySpace and LinkedIn. Users can now post updates and photos directly to the connected services. Facebook Chat is also integrated via the XMPP protocol. There are also various games and applications that can be accessed via the conversation window by clicking the games icon. There are many different versions of Windows Live Messenger, with each new version bringing different user features.
IM Language
Windows Live Messenger uses the Microsoft Notification Protocol over TCP to connect to Microsoft Messenger service—a service offered on port 1863 of “messenger.hotmail.com.” Microsoft shared version 2 to developers in 1999 in an Internet Draft. Windows Live Messenger version 8 or higher has never been released to the public.
Security / Archiving
Windows Live Messenger is a fairly secure instant messaging service, but there are certain measures you should take in order to prevent your computer from being infected. Many hackers will pose as friends with links that they want you to click. Be careful and exercise caution by asking your friend if they did indeed send you a link. It is also important to make sure that you add only people that you know because some people are actually viruses looking to steal your information. Due to the widespread popularity of Windows Live Messenger many have used the service for phishing attacks, worms and viruses. It is important to activate the proper antivirus software on your computer to ensure your online safety.
User base
Windows Live Messenger is currently the most used instant messaging service in the world. It is estimated to have over 330 million users. These figures will soon change with the elimination of Windows Live Messenger. Windows Live Messenger will now be integrated with Skype, so the amount of users is bound to change.
Final Thoughts
Windows Live Messenger is a very popular instant messaging service that many people have come to use on a daily basis. It has many different features for file sharing, social media and fun. This messaging service is in the process of being retired. It will now be integrated with Skype, which has more interactive features for users including voice and video chats.