What can you tell me about MSN Messenger?

[club_med]

Hi, I usually use ICQ personally, but I installed MSN Messenger for my mother because all her relatives use it.

What are your opinions and experiences with it?
Any security issues I should be aware of?
Spyware issues?

Thanks.

(using Win98se and am on an ADSL connection)

[bluedragon]

I use it, have for some time. It has the usual risks with any IM. Convenience mainly for me, like you I have famiiy and friends that use it. It does have a background feature that calls home for updates I believe. But that can be turned off:D It will also keep a running check on your Hotmail account and provides a quick way to check the email there. Doesn't really seem to have much overhead on my machine. Just sits there and does its job without being a real pain about it.

[club_med]

Thanks bliedragon, are there any spyware issues ?...just wondering.

[bluedragon]

No spyware that I'm aware of. I use a couple of programs to keep an eye on that. and while I have found it in a few other things. I haven't found it in messenger.

[bluedragon]

If spyware is a concern (isn't for almost everybody)? Here is a link to one of the best eliminators that I have found.Here (http://www.lavasoftusa.com/index.html) And its free updates and all:D

[club_med]

Ok thanks very much bluedragon :)