Using Instant Messaging Software to keep in touch with friends and family across the world has never been easier, thanks to our IM tutorials

Instant messaging software is widely available and widely used on Windows PC's. Modern instant messaging software is so advanced that some users have done away with their regular land-line telephones and simply installed IM and VOIP software on their computers!

If you are not familiar with what IM and VOIP actually is, please see our Introduction to Instant Messaging.

Using our tutorials, you'll soon be able to configure and use a wide range of IM software which should cater for virtually any need.

Pidgin is a multi-protocol instant messaging program. This means that from one program, you can chat to friends who use the AOL, Windows Live, Yahoo, Google Talk and several other networks too. Fantastic if you have lots of friends on different networks and you don't want to clutter up your computer by downloading two or more different IM programs.

Skype is the most commonly used internet telephone (voice over IP) application. Our tutorials show how you can install and configure this excellent free software and start making phone calls using your internet connection. The tutorials below have now been updated for Skype 4.

Windows Live Messenger is a popular choice amongst users of all ages. The software is packed with features, including extensive voice and webcam support, child protection featues and now the ability to chat to users on the Yahoo network. Our tutorials show you how to install and use this excellent free instant messaging software.