Ever wonder if anyone you know is online while you are? There are several ways for you to do just that today. There is a large internet company (guess who) that has made a reputation for itself with the concept of "chat rooms." Now there is a new twist. It's called "Instant Messenger." This is free from AOL and is a standard addition now for the Netscape Browser. You can use any Browser that you want, but only Netscape integrates this software with the total package (you can select it from the menu). However, there are subtle differences in other utilities, like ICQ, but essentially they offer the same sort of online notification and chat capabilities. You'll have to determine which is right for you and your list of buddies.
With America On Line's Instant Messenger (AIM) you build what they call a "Buddy List." This list contains the "Screen Name" (user ID) of your buddies. Once you have installed the software (you don't have to be an AOL subscriber to use this software) and register your screen name, exchange your screen name with friends and family! Enter your buddies to your list and you (and they) will be notified anytime both you and your buddy are online at the same time. Why would you want to do that?
My family uses AIM to keep in touch across the country. It's cheaper than long distance. I also use it to talk to old friends who live in other areas of the country, too. The newer features (I've noticed it doesn't seem to work the same for AOL users ... sorry about that) allow you to invite more than one person to chat together and even exchange files with each other. Great way to get pictures of the last birthday party!
That's a nice personal tool to use. What other interesting FREE tools are there?
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