Bob said:
What the heck is "net messanger" that installed itself on my computer upon
XP Pro reintall and how do I stop it from running automatically (it isn't in
the startup group)?
It is the 'Instant Messenger' internet chat service, similar to MSN
Messenger, but differently implemented.
You can prevent it loading - it is in the registry at
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\run
as a line to run msmsgs.exe
Or you can let it load and then use its Options to 'not load when
Windows starts'
If you do this you should also make two changes in Outlook Express - its
Tools - Options uncheck 'Automatically logon to Windows Messenger', and
its View - Layout to uncheck Contacts (which use messenger in support).
Note that setting up a Net passport for it - which is what you will be
noticing - involves no more than supplying an e-mail address to which a
'please confirm' email can be sent. It does not require personal
details
