How to Delete the Chat Archive History for MSN Messenger

Delete archived IM sessions to prevent them from being read by others.

Windows Live Messenger, previously known as MSN Messenger, includes the option to save a copy of all of your instant messenger conversations on your computer. Your message history isn't password-protected and can be viewed by anyone who uses your computer. If you're sharing sensitive information over IM, you can delete your chat archives to protect your privacy.

Instructions

1. Click "Start" and select "Computer." Double-click on the C drive to open it.

2. Double-click "Users," then double-click your user profile.

3. Double-click "Documents," then "My Received Files."

4. Double-click the name of your Windows Live Messenger profile. Double-click "History" to view the list of archived IM conversations. Your conversations are displayed as XML files, labeled with the IM recipient's screen name.

5. Click on an XML file and press "Delete" to delete the file. To delete your entire message history, press "Ctrl" and "A" to select all of the files, and press "Delete." Click "OK" to confirm that you want to delete the file.

6. Return to the desktop. Right-click "Recycle Bin" and select "Empty Recycle Bin." Click "Yes" when prompted to complete the deletion of the files.

Tips & Warnings

• Prevent Windows Live Messenger from saving future conversations by deselecting that option. Log in to the IM client, select the drop-down menu beneath your name, and click "More Options." Click "History" and deselect the box that says "Automatically Save My Conversation History." Click "OK" to save your changes.