Probably one of the most commonly used features of Windows Live is Windows Live Messenger. You can use it to chat with friends and family, and you can organize your Windows Live Messenger contacts by groups or create favorites. Windows Live Messenger allows you to customize your Messenger window with custom scenes and animated images, share photos and much more. For an overview of Windows Live Messenger, read the Bright Hub article Windows Live Messenger: Award Winning Instant Messaging.

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If you decide you want to give Windows Live Messenger a try, read How to Install Windows Live Messenger and then check out Windows Live Messenger – All You Need to Know to Get Started.
If you are having problems with your Windows Live Messenger application, read troubleshooting articles such as How to Delete Windows Live Messenger Contacts Folders and My Windows Live MSN’s Webcam Hangs.