MSN messenger

Option is to open messenger whenever outlook is opened. Uncheck.

1. The article [Q319590] discusses the issue for and states that an Event ID 4354 may be recorded in the event log caused by an error condition in a COM+ component related to Microsoft Windows Messenger and Microsoft MSN Messenger and to upgrade to Windows Messenger 4.6 or later or MSN Messenger 4.6 or later. Otherwise, disable Windows Messenger or MSN Messenger from automatically starting.

2. The article [Q302089] states that by default Windows installs Windows Messenger and the user interface does not provide a way to remove or to uninstall it. When Service Pack 1 (SP1) is installed however, Windows adds a new feature that is named Set Program Access and Defaults to the Add or Remove Programs tool in Control Panel that can be used. Supplemental reading: "Windows Messenger Starts When You Start Outlook Express After You Remove Access to Windows Messenger (Q327390)."

3. The article [Q330904] explains that if you are sent a net send message by someone using the Messenger service in Windows XP, you'll receive an advertisement similar to the following called Messenger spam and occur if the following conditions exist:

a. The Messenger service is started.

b. The Remote Procedure Call service is started.

c. Inbound NetBIOS (NetBIOS over TCP/IP) and UDP broadcast traffic is turned on for your Internet connection.

Messenger Service
Message from source to your_computer_name.ISP_name on date time
Message Text

4. Steps for disabling the Messenger Service is described in, "Stop Mysterious Popup Ads in 2000/XP."

5. The article [Q330904] discusses this type issue, how to resolve it, and explains this may occur if you receive a net send message from someone who is using the Messenger service in Windows. The Messenger service is a Windows service that transmits net send messages and messages that are sent through the Alerter service between client computers and servers. For example, network administrators use Messenger service to send administrative alerts to network users. Windows and other software programs can also use the Messenger service. For example, Windows may use it to inform you when a print job is completed or when you lose power to your computer and switch to an uninterruptible power supply (UPS). Your antivirus program may use the Messenger service to send you notifications. The Messenger service is not related to your Web browser, e-mail program, Windows Messenger, or MSN Messenger. This issue may occur if the following conditions exist:

? The Messenger service is started.

? The Remote Procedure Call service is started.

? Inbound NetBIOS (NetBIOS over TCP/IP) and UDP broadcast traffic is turned on for your Internet connection.

6. Supplemental reading -- for contingencies of having set and/or stored automatic authentication for user accounts previously which may then be added, edited or removed as necessary:

a. "HOW TO: Manage Stored User Names and Passwords on a Computer That Is Not in a Domain in Windows XP (Q306541)."

b. "HOW TO: Manage Stored User Names and Passwords on a Computer in a Domain in Windows XP (Q306992)".

c. "Windows Messenger Knowledge Base Articles" - when looking for a specific article by number, hovering the mouse over a title line shows this information in the browser "Status" line.

d. From the Microsoft TechNet site, "Windows Messenger FAQ."

e. Further reading, "Shoot the Messenger."