Using msn messenger on GNU/LINUX

What is MSN?

The symbol "MSN" commonly refers to an instant messaging service, officially called "Windows Live Messenger" by his supplier Microsoft (c).

Specifically, as with any instant messaging protocol, the operation is as follows:

User 1 <- CLIENT <== Protocol ==> SERVER <== Protocol ==> CLIENT -> user 2.

In the case of MSN, the server is that of Microsoft, the protocol was created by them, and the client software is usually "Windows Live Messenger."

To chat with other users of the service "MSN" from a PC running GNU / Linux, you must install software that uses the protocol "MSN" and connects to servers "MSN". Logic.

So don't worry LINUX users.

Mono-graph client protocols

Only work with the instant messaging protocol "MSN".

aMSN

This client is designed to replace Windows Live Messenger. He who supports the specifications of the protocol "MSN": webcam, audio chat, file sharing, deferred messages, "wizz" ..
It has many skins and language packs.

Emesene

a python/Gtk Instant Messenger for the Windows Live Messenger network.Another dedicated graphic client to MSN.

Multi-protocols graphic Clients

These clients also support other IM protocols: ICQ, Yahoo, IRC, XMPP / Jabber ..

Kopete is a multi-protocol client customizable and very beautiful.



Also Pidgin (formerly Gaim)

Text Mode

For those who want to use MSN Messenger in text mode, there is CenterICQ, a client that also supports protocols ICQ, Yahoo, AIM, IRC, Gadu-Gadu and Jabber.

Yahoo Messenger for GNU / Linux. Available for RedHat, Debian and FreeBSD

Installation

To install these instant messaging clients just check the faq on linux softwares installation tutorials.

Most Problems to be faced

Some features are not available (winks for example)

The MSN protocol is not "open", meaning that information to use are not available. Clients other than Windows Live Messenger are developed "in the dark, trying to understand how MSN. In addition, the protocol may change, making the task even more difficult for developers of free clients.
If you are missing a function, you can:
help developers discover how the protocol "MSN" supports it,
wait until it is implemented,
ask the service provider MSN (Microsoft) to provide the information necessary for its implementation,
use another messaging protocol.

The webcam does not work on the EeePC with aMSN

Indeed. ASUS has not chosen the best webcam supported under GNU / Linux, aMSN does not support all webcams. Think of grumble from ASUS pending a solution...