Uninstall Windows Messenger

[silkie]

How do I get rid of Windows Messenger?

FileHippo update manager recommended an update to Windows Messenger.  As I never use this I thought I might as well uninstall.  I cant find the program listed in "Add or Remove Programs" and the listing in "All Programs" gives no response at all when clicked.  I did open the program via Search, but it only showed a sign in window.

I have Windows XP SP3

[Allan]

1) Do not use "update managers"
2) http://www.pchell.com/support/removemessenger.shtml

[Computer_Commando]

Windows Messenger or Windows Messenger Service?
http://www.grc.com/stm/shootthemessenger.htm

[Allan]

Windows Messenger or Windows Messenger Service?
http://www.grc.com/stm/shootthemessenger.htm

File Hippo certainly wouldn't have an update for a Windows Service.

[Computer_Commando]

This must be what is referred to:  http://www.filehippo.com/updatechecker/
I ran the standalone version and it comes up with Windows Live Messenger 2009.  I was able to uninstall the current version from Add/Remove Programs, Windows Components.

[Allan]

I believe the OP is talking about MS Messenger. Either way, I'll wait to hear from him or her to be sure.

[BC_Programmer]

There is a version included with XP. It's in Add/Remove Windows Components.

[silkie]

Thanks for replies.

Allan - FileHippo lists the program as: Windows Live Messenger 2009 (14.0.8089).   As mentioned, I've never used it  (my version is 4.7, so must be pretty old and been dormant).  I followed instructions given in your link to pchell, as far as I was able, but that seems only to have removed it from the startup program. The icon that has been appearing in the Task Bar ("You are not signed in") has gone.

Computer_Commando - I've looked again and there is definitely nothing listed in Add/Remove Programs under Windows Messenger.

Just seen latest post - BC_Programmer - it is in Components (I didn't look there).  I have cleared the ticked box and I think that has done the trick.

It's not really that important, but it is irritating that I cant figure out how to do it.

Allan - One other point - why do not use update managers?

[Computer_Commando]

...
Computer_Commando - I've looked again and there is definitely nothing listed in Add/Remove Programs under Windows Messenger.

Just seen latest post - BC_Programmer - it is in Components (I didn't look there).  I have cleared the ticked box and I think that has done the trick.

It's not really that important, but it is irritating that I cant figure out how to do it.

There is a version included with XP. It's in Add/Remove Windows Components.

That's what we both said.  I don't think he reading our replies.
It's in Add/Remove Programs, Windows Components.

[Allan]

Allan - One other point - why do not use update managers?

You only want to update what you need to update. Just because there is a new release of something, that does not mean you want or need it (if it ain't broke....). Update managers are indiscriminate -- this particular situation is a perfect example. Many well written apps have an internal "check for updates" feature. You can look at what the new update addresses or adds and decide for yourself if you want it. It is not unusual for an update to do harm rather than good.

[silkie]

OK.   Thanks again to all for info and advice.

With regard to the Add/Remove Programs listing - I didn't think to look in the Components window - something I've learned.  I'll know better in future.