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How Instant Messaging Works
(a non-technical explanation)

By Paul Gil, About.com

It's very easy to start participating in Instant Messaging.

Step 1) Choose and Install an IM Software on Your Computer.
  • Option a) Google Talk (bare bones chat only)
  • Option b) MSN Messenger (very popular, very sophisticated)
  • Option c) Yahoo Messenger (also very popular and sophisticated)
  • Option d) AIM (for everyone, not just AOL users)
  • Option e) Trillian (highly recommended; supports nearly all the above choices)

(see next page on where you can download these products)

Step 2) Begin Adding "Buddies" to Your Buddy List.
  • You can use regular email or phone to get their email addresses.
  • Ask them to install the same IM client software as you.
  • Use the on-screen menus to "add" these people to your list.
Step 3) Start Sending Messages to Each Other
  • Nothing is easier on the Internet: just click on their name on the screen, start typing, and press enter.
  • Extra features: you will have fun discovering how to send smileys, pictures, and colored font messages.


Next: Where to Download the Best IM Software for Yourself...
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