subject: IM Chat-What You Need To Know [print this page] IM refers to Instant Messaging which is a medium on the internet that allows you to send audio, webcam or text messages to another user on the computer. For an IM chat to work, you have to subscribe to a network that offers the service and have internet connection on your computer. There are various IM chat clients that are available including Mac, portable, enterprise, web based, multi-protocol and single protocol IMs. To communicate with another user on your IM chat, they have to be on your contact or friend list. This has become an effective way to communicate among computer users because the response is immediate. To get this service on your computer, you can download the software for free from the internet. Once it is downloaded, you should install it on your computer. If you are using the service for the first time, you will have to get an account which requires you to provide a user name and password. It is also possible to get live IM chat by using a webcam which makes it possible for you to see the person you are instant messaging. Live IM chat is very effective for small business owners who need a cheaper way to communicate with clients in distant locations. Live IM chat is also used in IM chat rooms which bring together groups of people with similar interests. These IM chat rooms make it possible to hold discussions. The type of language used in these IM chat rooms can seem strange because most users usually use shorthand and acronyms. These acronyms are used to make it easier to communicate. Users are also able to express the emotions they have by using emoticons when using instant messaging services. With this kind of language developed, there are certain standards that have been set to make it universal. Apart from sending messages to other users, instant messaging services can also allow you to share files and receive notifications when an email is sent to your account. The instant messaging services can also be accessed through mobile devices and cell phones. This means that you do not have to be on your computer to communicate with your friends or clients. Another aspect of this service that you need to know about is that the messages that you send can be archived. This is a great feature when you need to verify information that was sent. Instant messaging services also allow you to personalize the interfaces and icons used. It is also possible to communicate with another user like you would over the phone. Photos can be easily shared between users on the instant messaging services. With instant messaging, it is also possible to listen to the music another user is listening to without downloading it.
