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.
- 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...
