What is ICQ?

ICQ is one type of instant messenger that has been popular for more than a decade. It is one of the most widely used, known and sought after programs to keep in touch with family, friends and coworkers. The program first made its appearance in 1996 and is now owned, developed and distributed by AOL. It is now working in conjunction with AIM, so that both AIM and ICQ users can talk to one another via either program.

Like other instant messengers, ICQ utilizes chat with text messaging, offline messaging and file transfers. It also offers greeting cards, games and one of the most comprehensive searchable directory database. Since ICQ has been around forever, chances are you will be able to track down friends, family or coworkers using some form of the program. If not, and you are looking to meet new people, ICQ offers some of the easiest chat room services of any IM provider on the Internet.

Unlike using a screenname, similar to AIM, you are assigned a number known as UIN. Over the last few years, users can either sign in via the number or e-mail address associated with the account. There are more than 400 million UINs on the ICQ network. Some of the earliest UINs have been auctioned off on sites like eBay. In other cases, since users can now communicate with AIM screennames, the program allows users to keep in touch on two of the biggest IM networks associated with the world wide web.

ICQ is a viable option for those looking for a simple IM program. While programs like AIM and Windows Live Messenger can be daunting for some, ICQ offers simplicity in ways other programs do not. If you are looking for something easy to use, ICQ in several forms, might be right up your alley. With a simple download, you can begin interacting with new and old users from all across the globe.