If your current version of MSN Messenger is not version 6.2 (6.2.0205), then this is an important upgrade that fixes several security issues.

MSN Messenger comes with everything you would expect, including regular instant messaging, voice conversations, sending and receiving of files, text messaging to mobiles, phone calls, and integration with MSN Chat.

The interface is simple and easy to use, with everything you need for each function located in the right place at the right time.

Personalisation seems to be the theme of version 6, with few improvements made to the software itself. These include new backgrounds and the ability to change your display picture - the image that others see of you when chatting.

Conversations can now be saved at the click of a button; new animated emoticons are included and you can even make your own.

One real area of improvement is the ability to video chat via a webcam, making for much more intimate interaction.

MSN Messenger can only be used to communicate with other MSN Messenger users, which is extremely annoying, and unnecessary.

Programs such as Trillian let you communicate with users of all messaging programs.