How to Find and Use Plug-Ins for Yahoo Messenger

Yahoo Messenger is more than just an instant messaging and chat service. With Yahoo Messenger, you can send files and videos and even conference with your friends from around the world. Best of all, Yahoo Messenger has increased its abilities by including the option to find and use plug-ins to expand your Messenger experience. Hundreds already exist, and more are constantly being developed by members of the Yahoo community.

Things You'll Need

• Internet access
• Computer
• Yahoo Messenger
• Yahoo account

Instructions

Find and Use Yahoo Messenger Plug-Ins

1. Download Yahoo Messenger and create a profile using the 'Sign Up' link on the Yahoo home page (see Resources below). You'll need to restart your computer once you finish installing Yahoo Messenger in order for the changes to occur. Yahoo Messenger will load automatically once you restart your computer.

2. Enter your log-in information once Yahoo Messenger loads, then click the 'Sign In' button.

3. Click the 'Action' menu button from the main Yahoo Messenger window.

4. Select the 'Choose a Plug-In' option. This will open a window that includes all of the currently available plug-ins.

5. Select a plug-in from the list by clicking the 'Try It Now' link. This will automatically download the plug-in for you to try.

6. Find specific plug-ins from the Gallery Web site, one of the largest repositories for Yahoo Messenger plug-ins available.

7. Click the 'Install Now' link from the Gallery Web site to install plug-ins even without running Yahoo Messenger.

Tips & Warnings

• Some plug-ins include features that can conflict with those of other plug-ins. Find and use plug-ins that are the most reliable and that have been tested by the community for the highest level of compatibility.

• If you need to troubleshoot Yahoo Messenger, or cannot get Yahoo plug-ins to work properly, visit the Yahoo Help section for tips and answers (see Resources below).

• Be careful that the plug-ins you download are legitimate. While the vast majority of the plug-ins available are easy to use and produced by reputable members of the community, there is always the danger that some plug-ins have viruses attached to them. Inquire in forums and other Messenger communities to find out which ones are potential risks.