What is Instant Messenger?

The Netscape AOL Instant Messenger™ service is available for FREE to anyone on the Internet who downloads and installs it right now!

With Instant Messenger You Can...

See Who's Currently Online

Your personal Buddy List shows you which of your business associates, friends, and family are online right now!

Send a Quick & Private Instant Message

See your business associates online? Send and receive text messages for instant, private, one-to-one communication.

Use it Anywhere

Use Instant Messenger with any Internet connection; easily transfer your personal Buddy List and preferences to different computers.

Talk to Anyone on the Internet

Join the world's largest online community! Enjoy instant access to Internet users as well as over 11 million AOL members.

Customize

Send styled, and colored text, as well as clickable Web links. Customize Instant Messenger with your favorite sounds.

Enjoy a Safe & Private Online Environment

Instant Messenger's Neighborhood Watch™ program and privacy controls give you the power to "warn" users that send you unwanted messages and to control who is able to 'see' you online.

 

Do I Need Anything Special to Use Instant Messenger?

No, all you need is the Instant Messenger software and an Internet connection through your office or school network or your local Internet access provider.

If you're already an AOL member, you don't need to download Instant Messenger since you already have the Instant Message and Buddy List features with the America Online software. What is new is that you can now add non-AOL members to your Buddy List. If you want to send Instant Messages when you're connected to the Internet from a service other than America Online, such as a work or school connection, you should register for Instant Messenger and download the software. The good news is that you can register with and use your America Online screen name.

How It Works

Instant Messenger shows you a current list of your business associates and friends who are online at this very instant! Simply add any Instant Messenger users to your personal Buddy List, and their names will show up when they are online.

 


When you see someone you know online, you can send him or her an Instant Message by clicking on his or her screen name and typing. When you and your online buddy are swapping messages, it's like being in an exclusive chat room where you can work together on projects, make lunch plans, or just trade the latest news. Instant Messenger is faster than email, more fun than a phone call, and perfect for sharing any thoughts, ideas or questions, instantly!

 

To Use Instant Messenger, Just Follow These Easy Steps:


  1. Register and become an Instant Messenger user.
  2. Download and install the Instant Messenger software.
  3. Open the Instant Messenger program and sign on to the service.
  4. Set up your Buddy List by adding the screen names of your business associates, friends, and family.
  5. Now you're ready to use Instant Messenger!

    Go to Getting Started - Quick Tips for extra assistance in getting started.