If not careful, you can inadvertently infect the whole network of your organizations.

Never accept to download a file unless you are extremely sure of its origin and authenticity. IMs are often used to send spywares or viruses.Windows Live Messenger (formerly MSN Messenger).Once you install it, create an account and share it with your colleagues.

You must have administrator privilege on your computer to be able to install and IM. How to use:Most IMs need to be downloaded and installed locally. IM used to infect computers with spyware, viruses, trojans, worms) Keeping in touch with friends and familyĪlthough IMs deliver many benefits, they also carry with them certain risks and liabilities, particularly when used in workplaces.(2000) identifies the four primary functions of IM which are often cited in other reports, namely: In a report of IM use at the workplace Nardi et al. History: When to use:Due to their instant nature in sharing snippets of information, they are popular in many organizations. It is possible to save a conversation for later reference. In addition IM has additional features such as: the immediate receipt of acknowledgment or reply, group chatting, conference services (including voice and video), conversation logging and file transfer. Some IM systems allow users to use webcams and Microphone which made them more popular than others. However, some systems allow the sending of messages to people not currently logged on (offline messages), thus removing much of the difference between IM and e-mail. It is different from e-mail in that it is synchronicity of the communication by the user - messaging happens in real-time before your eyes. NOTE: Should we have a separate page for group chat?īrief Description:Instant messaging (IM) and chat are technologies that facilitate near real-time text based communication between two or more participants over a network. Instant Messengers and ChatThis page is not yet complete.

Chat messengers