Instant messaging

IM (instant messaging) programs allow Internet users to communicate in one-to-one conversations; they are a chat room for just two people.

With programs such as ICQ (I seek yon) and MSN Messenger you can maintain a list of people, called a buddy list or contact list.

The program opens up a small window where the people engaged in the conversation type their messages.

The latest IM programs also incorporate telephone, video and file-sharing facilities and are becoming an alternative to traditional video conferencing programs.