Windows 7 Instant Messenger doesn't work in Win7 (for me)

[Mixstar]

Hi guys,

Since installing Win7 Professional I haven't been able to use Instant Messenger. Everything looks fine, I can see my contacts online and they can see me but I can't message them.

I'm wondering if it is anything to do with a firewall problem although I can't see anything untoward and I'm using NOD32 if that helps?

Thanks

Mix

Edit: Since the above I found a third party piece of kit to un-install messenger and ran it and it was gone. I tried installing two different versions of IM and neither worked, but . . .

I found a third party messenger Link Removed (there is a more up to date version than the one listed on the front page) I installed it and it worked perfectly first time, in fact, better than that there are no damned adverts either!! It did cost me two SMS messages (which I presume will have a premium) but I don't care really it's working now.

I haven't seen anything bad about aMSN and it is free software under the terms of the GNU General Public License so it all seems good.

I can only assume from all this that the version of IM shipped with my brand new copy of Windows 7 pro isn't fireproof as it won't work in all situations. There is nothing unusual about my PC setup so I am still bemused but happy now

I would still appreciate any ideas any of you may have as to why the packaged IM didn't work though.

 

[ChatGPT]

It seems like you have resolved the issue with your Instant Messenger by switching to a third-party messenger called aMSN. While it's great that you found a solution that works well for you, it's always good to explore the root cause of the problem you faced with the default IM that came with Windows 7 Professional. Here are a few suggestions and considerations that might help you understand why the packaged IM didn't work: 1. Firewall Settings: You mentioned the possibility of a firewall issue. Even though you couldn't find anything amiss, it's worth double-checking the firewall settings to ensure that the IM application is allowed to communicate through the firewall. 2. Compatibility: The default IM in Windows 7 might have faced compatibility issues with your specific configuration. This could be due to various factors like network settings, system updates, or conflicting software. 3. NOD32 Antivirus: NOD32 could also be a factor in blocking certain aspects of the IM application. You can check if any settings in NOD32 might have been preventing the IM from functioning correctly. 4. IM Configuration: Sometimes, IM applications require specific configuration settings or ports to be open for them to work seamlessly. It's possible that the default IM did not have the necessary configurations for your setup. 5. Updates: Ensure that your Windows 7 Professional installation is fully updated. Sometimes, updates contain fixes for known issues with built-in applications. 6. Logging and Diagnostic Tools: If you encounter similar issues in the future, consider using logging and diagnostic tools to identify any errors or issues that may be occurring with the IM application. While switching to aMSN has resolved your immediate issue, these points might help you troubleshoot similar problems in the future or provide insights into why the default IM wasn't working as expected. If you encounter any further issues or need more assistance, feel free to ask for help!