Is it time to get some new MSN emoticons? Thought so

Sometimes it just feels right to get some new MSN emoticons. After using the same ones for a while, it can get boring - or maybe you just want to customize your software even more. Customizing any kind of software can fun and rewarding, but I think this applies especially to any person's instant messenger software of choice; in this case, MSN instant messenger.

The nice thing about the tremendous and rapid advancements we're seeing in computers, technology, and software especially is that there is a very high regard and importance being placed on the ability to customize things to the particular user's preference - right down to some very detailed facets of the software's function. Again in this case, we're going to be examining MSN emoticons and how you can change them.

Believe it or not, there actually isn't any complex process when installing or updating a new package of emoticons for MSN instant messenger - typically you'll download a pack of emoticons in a format known as .exe - this is an executable file. Basically that means once you open the file, it's going to do all the hard work for you. Make sure you know the source of any executable file is reliable, since exe's can be dangerous if you don't know what they contain. Think of an executable file as a box. What you want is inside the box - such as new MSN emoticons - when you run the file it's just the same as opening the box. My point here is to be sure you know exactly what's inside the box!

Most installation programs will have a few screens and tell you what kind of things they'll be installing, whether or not there is any form of TOS (terms of service - ie; if your computer blows up the company isn't responsible - don't worry, this doesn't happen), and other helpful things like what components you'd like installed (blue smilies versus green smilies for example) and where you'd like them to go - once again in this case it's probably going to be your MSN instant messenger "root" (or main) folder. Typically this will be C:\program files\MSN or something similar. Just be smart and don't be afraid to take the time to read and properly understand exactly what you're going to be installing onto your computer and how you'll be modifying your MSN software.

Hopefully the above wasn't too complex - it's really quite easy to get new MSN emoticons working. It can be a lot of fun, especially if you and your friends all make sure to have the same packages installed - that way you'll all see exactly what the other person can see when you use an emoticon. Keep in mind that if someone else doesn't have the same emoticon package as you, they won't see the smilies in the exact same way that you do. That's why it's a great idea to share!