How to Hide the Chat on Facebook

It's a scenario many dread: You get on Facebook, hoping to scan the recent updates quickly and then log off, when someone initiates a chat with you. It's seems rude to ignore a chat, so you reply to the individual, only to discover that he or she wants to talk endlessly. You're finally forced to end the conversation, only to repeat the process the next time you log in. Fortunately, Facebook understands this plight and allows you to hide your online status, thus removing anyone's ability to chat with you.

Instructions

1. Open Facebook via your Web browser and log into Facebook.

2. Click "Chat" on the bottom right-hand side of the Web page. A list of available friends will appear, as well as an "Options" link.

3. Click "Options," then "Go Offline." You will no longer show up as online while on Facebook, and no one will be able to chat with you.

Tips & Warnings

• You can turn chat back on by clicking the "Chat" window on the bottom right side of the screen; chat will automatically turn back on.