Windows Live Messenger Requirements

Windows Live Messenger is an instant messaging application by Microsoft and is also a part of the Windows Essentials package, which includes Windows Mail, Photo Gallery, Movie Maker and Writer. You can also initiate audio conversations, send SMS text messages to your friends and play games online. However, you need to find out whether your computer has the necessary requirements to install the program.

Operating System

Windows Live Messenger works with Windows XP with Service Pack 2 (32-bit edition only), Windows Vista (32-bit or 64-bit editions), Windows 7 (32-bit or 64-bit editions), or Windows Server 2008. To find out what operating system you have, click on the "Start" menu and then right-click "My Computer" or "Computer." The operating system type will be under "Windows Edition."

Processor

You need a processor with the speed of at least 1GHz if you are installing Windows Live Messenger on Windows Vista or 7, and at least 800MHz if you have Windows XP. You can check the speed of your CPU just like the type of Windows you have next to "Processor."

Memory and Hard Drive

You need at least 512MB or RAM (Random Access Memory) with Windows Vista and 7, and 128MB (256MB or more recommended) with Windows XP. You will also need at least 66.9MB of free hard disk space to install Windows Live Messenger. You can find out the RAM on your PC the same way as you checked the operating system, looking next to "Memory (RAM)." Right-click your "C:" drive, select "Properties" and find the free space on your hard disk next to "Free Space."

Resulution and Intenet Connection

You need a minimum display resolution of 1024 x 768 for the Messenger to run properly and a broadband (cable or DSL) Internet connection for live chat or audio conversations. Dial-up can also do the job, but the connection will be too slow for a comfortable conversation.

References

• Windows Live: Essentials: System requirements