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GAIM
GAIM is a useful multi-network, chat client for Windows and Linux. A tool similar to Trillian and Odigo but fully open-source. One of the most activly projects on the SourceForge site, where it continues to grow. The default chat tool of the most popular Linux distribution, Red Hat.
This client connects simultaniously to possibly the most available chat networks of any multi-network client including:
- AIM (Oscar and TOC protocols)
- ICQ
- MSN Messenger
- Yahoo Messenger
- IRC
- Jabber
- Gadu-Gadu
- Zephyr
Also supports those networks' features like "Away" messages and profiles.
Unlike many multi-network clients, it integrates well with IRC's channels and /msg system.
Efficient
GAIM uses far less system memory of other similar Windows clients and is ideal for slower computers. As of a Feb, 2004 test, the Windows version works well, using half the system memory of other similar programs (such as AIM). IRC functions work well, as do file transfers and most other basic functions, excluding videoconferencing.
In order to chat with people on the different networks, you may need to have an account on each of them (most support web registration, in the case of Jabber, an account can be created directly from within Gaim). When the application is started, it can automatically log in to all the specified networks.
Users are not listed by network but organized in groups. They have an icon next to their name that represents both the availability and the network they are on.
Security
There is an encryption plugin that enables one to establish a secure chat with other GAIM users.
Origin
GAIM was originally a Gnome AOL instant messenger or GAIM, later it became multi-protocol.
Related
- Bitlbee - An IRC to IM gateway daemon. It is partly based on GAIM though it is starting more and more travelling it's own path.
- gaim-vv - A friendly fork of GAIM to concentrate on video and voice support, which will eventually be backported. More info...
