|
|
 |
|
|
| |
|
If you use or are considering using instant messaging (IM) you will want to read
this article. Instant messaging is rapidly becoming popular especially in business.
It's free, easy to use and provides some useful benefits. This article
discusses some of the security and privacy issues to consider when using "Instant
Messaging" programs like AOL Messenger (AIM), MSN/Windows Messenger, ICQ, Yahoo!
Messenger and Google Talk. Have a great day, Tom
|
|
 |
|
what is instant messaging?
Instant messaging or IM allows users to type and exchange text messages,
voice and or video messages and upload or download (from one computer to another)
files of various types. Examples of IM programs (called clients) are AOL Messenger (AIM),
MSN/Windows Messenger, ICQ, Yahoo! Messenger and Google Talk. Instant messaging
programs are often installed by default on computers purchased from major retail
chains and manufacturers. Almost any computer that comes with Windows XP or Vista
installed will have a version of MSN or Windows Messenger installed by default.
Some Internet service providers (example: AOL) include and install their own IM
program AOL Messenger (AIM) with their Internet access and browsing software.
|
| |
benefits of instant messaging
The benefits of instant messaging (IM) include:
-
Works in real time allowing the easy and immediate exchange of ideas and information.
Features like "group chats" and the ability to create "chat rooms" allow easy
collaboration between multiple people. Some IM applications/clients also feature
"whiteboards" which allow multiple people to interactively draw and write as if
using a chalkboard in a classroom.
-
Many instant messaging (IM) applications (clients) are free, easy to use and
install. They are available for download from the Internet.
-
IM applications allow you to create contact/buddy lists and monitor when those
people are online and available to communicate with. IM communication is more
immediate which can reduce the time wasted playing "phone tag" or waiting for a
response by e-mail.
-
Instant messaging can serve as an alternative to e-mail if your e-mail system or
client (the program you use to send e-mail) is not functioning properly. If you
run a business you can use IM in addition to the telephone. This could help reduce
your overall monthly phone expenses (especially long distance charges).
|
| |
how IM messages are transmitted
The diagram below is a simplified illustration of the most common way an instant
message is transmitted between two peoples computers connected to a public IM service
like AIM, MSN, ICQ, Yahoo or Google. Your instant message is first sent from the instant
messaging software installed on your computer (IM Client) to your ISP and it's
equipment. It is then routed to the computer (IM Server) owned by the company who
provides the free instant messaging service for example: AOL or Microsoft. The IM
service (IM server) and equipment routes your message to the intended recipients ISP.
The recipients ISP then routes the instant message to the recipients computer and
instant messaging application (IM Client).
|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
|
| Copyright © 1995-2008 Advance Computers. All rights reserved. |
| |
