ICQ (or "I seek you") is the chosen method of instant messaging for millions of 'net users, and I am no exception. It has proven to be a great way for me to keep in touch, not mainly because of what the software itself is, but just because most of my work colleagues (I am a PC engineer based from home), family and friends use, so I have to go with the flow. ICQ has annoyeed on previous occasions, with "see my XXX porn site..." etc, messages being spammed from some unknown person/organisation, but once you get to grips with the menus and controls you can stop this sort of junk from harrasing you.

It is unobtrusive and just sits in the background, and is perfect for what it does. There are many other features on ICQ, but I dont use them, I have better things to do with my time, so it is just used simply for messaging and occasional chat with family, friends and colleagues as mentioned before.