Instant messages are used to communicate with friends on the Internet. They are similar to email because they consist of text that you type back and forth. However, unlike email, you don't have to wait hours or days for an answer. As the name suggests, messages you send usually arrive instantly.
Yahoo! Messenger allows you to send instant messages. Use Yahoo! Messenger to see when friends are online and chat back and forth with them, like having a real conversation.
If you are having trouble sending, receiving, or replying to instant messages, please read our Troubleshooting Guide.