The first version of MSN Messenger debuted in 1999, before the term "instant messaging" had any resonance with average PC users. Back then, the quirky Israeli program ICQ had started the IM revolution, though previous Internet and network "chat" programs, like UNIX talk and Pow-Wow were obvious influences. In the early days of MSN Messenger, Microsoft worked hard to make the application compatible with the competition, primary AOL Instant Messenger (AIM). However, after that work was repeatedly thwarted by AOL, Microsoft backed off and steadily improved its own product instead.

Today, MSN Messenger is phenomenally successful in its own right. According to Microsoft, over 155 million active users log on to MSN Messenger service every month, making it one of the most often used Internet-based applications ever created. (To put that figure in perspective, four year ago, MSN Messenger had just 5 million users.)

The previous major MSN Messenger version, MSN Messenger 6, debuted in April 2003. This version added animated emoticons, personalized backgrounds for chat windows, customizable display pictures, message logging capabilities, and other features. MSN Messenger 6.1, released in November 2003, added compatibility with SPOT watches through MSN Direct and improved digital ink capabilities for Tablet PC users. MSN Messenger 6.2 debuted in April 2004. This version included the MSN Toolbar as an optional install and a Shared Browsing feature for subscribers of the MSN Dial-up, Plus, and Premium services.

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