YWAM Information Technology

Two great multi-protocol IM's exist that can help in IM communications. These are small programs that require little resources, unlike the proprietary IM programs (i.e. Yahoo, MSN, etc.), so it's possible to get excellent performance on slower machines. It's also nice to use a multiple IM because you don't have to try to convince your friends to switch to another protocol. Instead, you can accomodate them. Some things are limited, like file transferring, video or audio. I use Skype for those things.

For Windows & Linux: GAIM

For Mac Os X: Fire

Both can handle simultaneous connections with MSN, AIM, Yahoo, ICQ , Jabber & IRC. GAIM will also handle Gadu-Gadu, SILC, Novell GroupWise Messenger, Lotus Sametime, and Zephyr. Fire will also handle Rendevous.