If you're a MSN Messenger user and you have not yet tried the free Messenger add-on called Messenger Plus!, you're missing out. Cruise on over to download a copy and see all the extras you can get.

I have been using Messenger Plus! for well over a year, and I find myself using many of its features all the time. The logging is great, and the floating messenger contacts capability is very cool. I can also use it to associate special sounds with individuals and their actions - so when Tim logs on, for example, timmy_scream.wav plays instead of the default Messenger sound. Heh... And the emoticon sounds thing is cool, too.

There's also a whole slew of plug-ins available. Click on the Plug-ins link that you'll find on the download page for a complete library. One of my favorites is the IRC-style plug-in that lets me type things like "/me slaps himself upside the head."

Click to download it:

About the sponsor program that comes with the software: When you install Messenger Plus!, you'll be given an opportunity to choose whether or not you want to install a "sponsor program" (this is how the author makes a few bucks for his work). I'm glad Patchou, the author, allows people to opt out of this when installing, since some people either cannot or don't want to install that kind of software. The sponsor is C2 Media, and it installs a toolbar in IE and adds some commercial advertising. You don't have to install the sponsor program if you don't want to.

Note: If you're not already on my contact list, my MSN Messenger address is the same as my email:

• greg(at)greghughes(dot)net

Feel free to add me if you like...