Where to Download the Best IM Software

(the most popular instant messaging products today)

The most popular instant messaging systems used today are: MSN Messenger, Yahoo! Messenger, AIM, Google Talk, and ICQ.

Another special IM client, highly praised by the users and techies alike, is Trillian, a fully featured, stand-alone, skinnable chat client that supports AIM, ICQ, MSN, Yahoo Messenger, and IRC.

Here is where you can download these products:

Choice 1: MSN Messenger
(very popular; has many features)
Download here.
Microsoft’s own messenger system that is versatile, pretty and used by millions around the globe. You can even send SMS direct from MSN Messenger to your friends' mobile devices!

Choice 2: Yahoo! Messenger
(also very popular, with many features)
Download here.
A feature-laden IM system that makes the chatting a real hoot! If you're a Yahoo! user, you'll have access to all the information you store in your Yahoo profile, including your calendar, address book, and customized news.

Choice 3: AIM (AOL Instant Messenger)
(a third major competitor worth trying)
Download here.
Also known as: AOL Instant Messenger. You don't need to be an America Online subscriber in order to sign-up to download and use AIM.

Choice 4: Google Talk
(very bare bones; not that popular)
Download here.
The new kid on the instant messaging block, presently in beta (still being tested) and requires a Gmail username and password. Don't have Gmail? No problem! Send me an email from your current email account, and I will happily send you a Gmail invitation!

Choice 5: Trillian
(highly recommended for both beginners and advanced users)
Download here.
A one-stop-shop for those who want it all, this IM client is close. Trillian supports AIM, ICQ, MSN, Yahoo! Messenger, and IRC! Both free and paid (Pro) versions available.

Special thanks to our guest author, Joanna Gurnitsky. Joanna is a Desktop Specialist and Hardware Technologist in Alberta, Canada.