Instant Messaging: The Basics

Instant Messaging is a great tool for computer users. It is a way to have a quick rapid fire conversation with someone who may be nowhere near you. The concept of Instant Messaging has been integrated into many other programs. Facebook and Myspace both have an IM capability. Most emails also have the capability to go "online" and talk to people within your contacts list.
Instant Messaging programs such as Yahoo, AIM and Google Talk have also enabled audio/video capabilities, making them quite similar to Skype (which will be discussed later). For Mac users, the IM program is called iChat.
Instant Messaging is cost effective as it is entirely free and it is completely instant. The world is at your fingertips and you can talk to people from absolutely anywhere.
Next up we'll explore the pros and cons of Instant Messaging!