msn live messenger replacement client for Windows?

Question

Possible Duplicate:
Available IM Clients for Windows

I don't like the msn live messenger client very much, and I'm looking for a replacement, which should :

• not be an online site because I don't trust them with my password
• implement the file transfer functionality
• allow me to see my contacts status and profile picture
• be free (as in free beer)

Answer 1

• Pidgin.
• Trillian.
• Miranda.
• aMSN Originally for Linux, but there's a Windows port).

I'm not really sure about the "allow me to see my profile picture" option, I haven't tried them all.

The one I'm using, Pidgin, has this functionality though.

Answer 2

Another option is Emesene. It does everything on your list.

You might be interested to read the following from the How-To Geek:

Replace Windows Live Messenger with Emesene

Answer 3

Have you tried aMSN messenger?
I have only tried it on Mac, but they have a Windows version and one of the features is 'file transfers'.

Answer 4

I would suggest Digsby. In my oppinion it's the best IM client for Windows systems.

It has support for the following ( Taken from their website )

• One combined buddy list for all your AIM, MSN, Yahoo, ICQ, Google Talk, Jabber, and Facebook Chat Accounts.
• Manage your Hotmail, Gmail, Yahoo Mail, AOL/AIM Mail, IMAP, and POP accounts right from digsby.
• Stay up to date with everything happening on your Facebook, Twitter, MySpace and LinkedIn accounts.

Edit: Digsby now contains crapware during the installation, clicking decline on the crapware user agreement installs digsby without it.

Answer 5

Older versions of Trillian don't have any online account creation, and I believe it's just an Option in the latest release - not a requirement. It meets all your other requirements as well.