It seems that there could be a flaw (feature?) in the new version of Windows Messenger (4.7), which enables Messenger to sign you in, without permission, and without your knowledge.

I installed it the other day, and precisely that happened.  I had no taskbar icon to indicate WM was even running, let alone that I was signed in.  My only notification was when chat windows started popping up.  I opened the Tools section, and made certain the box to 'Load Messenger when Windows starts' was un-ticked.  I even deleted my password, so that it could not sign in, but it still did.

I thought it was just me and my PC, but I have spoken to two other people who have found the same problem.  I would advise anyone considering upgrading to the new version of WM to stick to the old version, until this issue is resolved.

If you want to un-install Windows Messenger, it doesn't appear in Add / Remove as it's integrated with XP, but here is a useful link to get rid of it if you need to - click here.

I don't know if the above applies to the new version of MSN Messenger.  I haven't tried, and will be sticking to Trillian for now.  

Not to be confused, Brian, are you talking version 4.7 of Windows Messenger (which has just been released), or MSN Messenger (that version of which has been about for a while)?  I only say that because the two are mistaken often, as you will no doubt be aware.  It's also strange that two other people I have met are having the same symptoms after downloading the new version of Windows Messenger (Not MSN), which made me think it might not just be me.  

I agree with you that a re-format is probably the thing to do, but it will have to wait until I have enough time to see it through completely, as it's not something I would want to undertake with time being limited.

Thats what it say my friend

Windows Messenger
Version 4.7(4.7.2009)
Copright (C) 1997-2002 Microsoft Corporation, All rights reserved

Brian

The problem I would have with any reinstallation on my own machine is that it's the "master" machine for the network and the router is attached to it.  That bit scares me to death.  

It depends mainly on how many times you unistall and install various programs Clive.
If you never uninstalled anything and just ran the programs you had on at the start,say word stuff and a few picture editing ones then you probably would never need to do it again.
Its the unistalling and reinstalling of programs that alter the registry,as far as I know,and this gets "messed up" eventually.

As far as the router goes Clive you shouldnt have a problem as the information on your VIGOR is installed in the router not the PC.
In fact,unless I have misunderstood it completely,it should be easier to get back on line after a wipe and reinstall with your present setup than when you had to make a DUN before.
You should only need to run the network wizard on both PCs and youll be in business again  

"We have now banned him from ever coming home again"

Thats a good line Clive I think I'll use that with my kidds

Brian

Well, that's the same version Brian.   :-[

I don't really need it as I have Trillian, but I'll try installing it again, or perhaps MSN Messenger, just to see what happens.

I know I'm just putting off what seems to be the inevitable - I'll get round to a re-install of XP at some point, when I've mustered the energy, had a good night's sleep, and got everything I need on CD.  It's just the prospect of having to re-install all my programs that seems the most daunting.