how does something like msn messenger or icq work?

[Dug]

Can someone explain in some detail how information is sent between computers using one of these services?

 

[Nightfall]

In simple terms....

Your computer connects to ICQ or MSN Messenger using the client. If someone sends you a message, it goes to ICQ then sends the message to your system.

 

[Dug]

Thanks Nightfall.
I wasn't sure if these messeging services created a direct link between people or if the info was sent through servers.
I was looking for a little more info.
Such as- do they use a specific port?
Are the messages sent the same way as e-mail?
Are there any security concerns using these services?

 

[IaPuP]

AIM sends all messages through the server unless you specifiy "connect directly"

ICQ sends all messages directly unless there is a problem then it does through the server.

As for the ports... ya, there are half a dozen- mostly TCP ports in the 1xxx range somewhere.

Don't know them offhand =-)

Eric

 

[n0cmonkey]

5190 for aol I believe.

I cant remember icq right off though...