How to Get Instant Messaging on MSN

Instant messaging programs vary from a simple Java-based Internet application that can be launched from various Internet browsing platforms to a downloadable application that can be used on your PC or mobile devices. MSN Messenger is an IM application that offers an Internet version via MSN (Microsoft's main online presence) that is both easy to launch and easy to use, along with a download-enabled version that is also easy to acquire and use.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

How to Download MSN Messenger Via MSN

1. Visit MSN by pointing your browser to MSN.com.

2. Click the "Messenger" link located near the top left-hand corner of the MSN.com Web page.

3. Click the "Join Now" link located at the top of the MSN Messenger page.

4. Choose your location under the "Let us know where you're from" link and click the "Next" button.

5. Choose "MSN Messenger" under the "Choose Your Service" drop-down box.

6. Click the "Download" link located directly under the "Choose Your Service" box.

7. Click on the application and then click "Run" after the application has completely downloaded. Follow the install directions and then log into your Microsoft Live account by using your username and password or by signing up for an account once the application is fully installed. You now have PC access to MSN Messenger.

Use MSN Messenger From A Web Browser

8. Visit MSN Web Messenger at Webmessenger.msn.com/.

9. Click on the option you want to sign in with under "Sign In As." These options include "Invisible, Be Right Back, Online."

10. Click on "Start MSN Web Messenger," and you'll be sent to your Microsoft account to sign in. Use your Microsoft live account username and password or your Hotmail credentials.

11. Click "Sign In" and the MSN Web Messenger application will pop up in a new window and will be ready for use.

Tips & Warnings

• Enable pop-ups to display so MSN Web Messenger can launch the application's Web window.

Resources

• MSN website