Seeing as how it's grown to be one of the worlds' largest companies, it seems only natural that Microsoft develop their own chat protocol. Starting with simple features and simple contact management back in 1999, it has progressed well over the years, to include features such as PC to PC chatting and even webcam support. In the last few years, Microsoft has abandoned the MSN moniker and renamed the application 'Live Messenger', to better fit in with their new 'Live' line of products and services.