What Needs to Be Installed to IM?
Instant messaging, also known as chatting, is a form of electronic communication that lets you contact friends, family and associates via your computer’s Internet connection. The communication is free and requires the installation of a special application or accessing an Internet-based IM application that offers a text-input dialogue box. IM and Internet-based IM applications are available for Windows, Mac and Linux systems.
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IM Applications
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IM applications include, but not limited to, Yahoo! Messenger, AIM, Windows Live Messenger, Meebo, Google Talk and Kool IM. The applications include user-friendly interfaces, the ability to set up a profile, load a picture to the profile, and load contacts from your email application’s “Contacts” file. IM applications also include installation wizards, technical support and built-in help files.
Hardware Requirements
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You will need a webcam and/or microphone, internal or external, if you are planning on using the IM application’s video and voice calling components, if available. Your computer must also meet the minimum system requirements for the IM application, found on the application’s “Download” or “System Requirements” page. You also need an Internet connection, preferably a high-speed Internet connection, if planning on using video and voice calling components.
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Internet-based IM Applications
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Internet email services including Yahoo! Mail and Gmail let you IM others directly from your email’s main screen under the heading “Chat.” Email-IM applications let you communicate with others in your “Contacts” list as well as individuals you have added manually that are not in your Contacts list. You can also IM others via social media networks including Facebook, Myspace, LinkedIn and similar services. The IM applications let you chat with others that are in your “Friends” or “Contacts” lists.
Multiple Applications
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You can install and use multiple IM applications on your computer without a conflict developing. Each IM application is an independent program and installs in its own directory. You can have the same contacts within each IM application. You can also share contacts with Internet-based IM services like Yahoo! Mail, Facebook and Gmail.
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