windows live vs. msn messenger

legolass · Aug 5, 2008

Hi there!
I have been cleaning the mess in my computer over in the malware section, and I've noticed in many posts and stickies that using Windows Messenger is not recommended. I don't mind getting rid of this, but my husband uses it and I need to tell him why this isn't any good, and give him an alternative. Is Windows Live Messenger the same thing? Does MSN messenger work the same way? Where can I get it? And will we have to reset all the contact information we have under Windows Live Messenger? Thanks for any help!

Legolass

gimpster123 · Aug 5, 2008

Live Messenger is the most recent version of msn messenger. They are very similiar, and have nearly the same interface. Windows Live messenger is avalible here:http://get.live.com/messenger/overview

If you're interested in a less resource intensive option- try pidgin- avalible right here at Majorgeeks: http://majorgeeks.com/Pidgin_d4262.html

legolass · Aug 5, 2008

Thanks, Gimpster123.
Just to be sure I understand: the icon I have on my desktop that says Windows Live Messenger is actually a version of MSN Messenger? And is this the thing that keeps putting the sqmnoopt and sqmdata files on my C: drive? If so, do I need to keep these files, or can I get rid of them?
Sorry for being so dim!

DavidGP · Aug 6, 2008

Hi legolas

legolas said:

I've noticed in many posts and stickies that using Windows Messenger is not recommended
Click to expand...

This has always been a confusing subject as Windows Messenger mentioned in security guides at times is not refering to MSN or Live Messenger as in the Chat application but Windows Messenger ( Messenger Service ) is a network tool to send amongst other things network alerts around the network ( intranet ) but it was exploited by spammers, which is why in many cases it will popup in stickies or guides on how to protect your PC.

Also in the case of Windows/Live Messengers the chat apps it is always wise to use latest version to take benefit of the security updates.

If you have XP at SP2 or above or Vista then this is no issue as Windows Messenger is disabled by default.

sqmnoopt and sqmdata
Click to expand...

These are part of the customer improvement program and log files, at install there is an option to opt out but this can be easily missed, so to turn this off and the files from being generated ( they can be deleted safely )

Open MSN Messenger Live and click Help > and put a check in "I don't
want to participate right now"

They will slow but not stop althogether sometimes as the shared folders also generate these files, so go into Tools > Options > Sharing Folders and untick Use a Sharing Folder when I drag a file onto a contacts name.

legolass · Aug 7, 2008

Hi Halo!

I've deleted the sqm files and checked the Live accounts - everything looks good. Many thanks for your help!

Legolass

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windows live vs. msn messenger

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