ICQ: a newbie's guide

By PETER SINCLAIR

Load up and log on to the world's most popular instant messager. Here's how (you will need to be connected to the net throughout):

* Steer your browser to www.icq.com,

* Click on "Get ICQ for Free,"

* Select "ICQ for WINDOWS 95/98/2000/ME/NT4" (unless you run a Mac),

* Click "Save to Disk" (note where it is being saved on your drive).

After the download, close stuff running in the background with EndItAll and double-click the icon to start the install.

Click NEXT, NEXT again to the licence screen, and OK when the installation is complete.

ICQ will now present you with setup screens; most readers should select MODEM, then NEXT, then "NEW to ICQ."

Enter your details - you can lie! - hitting NEXT to continue.

Note: check "My authorisation is required for users to add me to their contact list" to control who may see and contact you online. Once "Registration Completed Successfully" appears, note your ICQ number so you can give it to friends.

Hit NEXT to see a flashing exclamation mark at the bottom of the ICQ window - this is your first System Message. Double click it.

To add friends to your contact-list, click on the ICQ button near the bottom of the ICQ window, select ADD/INVITE USERS.

Enter a name or (better) e-mail address to hunt for their ICQ numbers. A single click on their name will drop a menu of contact options. Message a friend or two.