Prevent Windows Messenger From Starting Automatically

If your new computer is running Windows XP Home or Pro edition, you can use the steps below. If you have SP1 installed, Windows added a new feature to the Add or Remove Programs tool in the Control Panel called Set program access and defaults. You can use this feature to remove Windows Messenger from the Start menu, the desktop, and other locations.
However, if you don't have Service Pack 1 installed (this method is suggested even if you do have SP1 installed), follow all steps below:


Windows XP Pro

1. Click Start > Run and type: gpedit.msc
2. Expand the following items: Local Computer Policy > Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows Messenger
3. Double-click Do not allow Windows Messenger to run and click Enable
4. Click OK and close the Group Policy snap-in

Windows XP Home

1. Start Windows Messenger.
2. Click Tools and select Options.
3. Click the Preferences tab, clear the Run this program when Windows starts check box, and click OK.

Windows XP Home / Pro

To install/uninstall Windows Messenger (and add or remove access to Windows Messenger from the Start Menu:

1. Click Start > Run and type: appwiz.cpl
2. Click on Add/Remove Windows Components and scroll down to Windows Messenger.
3. Check/Uncheck the check box to add/remove Windows Messenger.
4. Click Next, then Finish. The Windows Messenger icon will not be present in the Start Menu.