Is there anything like MSN Messenger in 2026? Four ways to get the feeling back

MSN Messenger shut down in 2013 (here's the full story). But people still search for it every day, because nothing since has felt quite the same. Here are the realistic options in 2026, and what each one is actually like.

1. Run the original app on a revival server

A volunteer project called Escargot has run replacement servers for the old Messenger app since 2017, so patched versions of the original program can sign in again (Datahorde). Versions from MSN Messenger 5.0 up to Windows Live Messenger 8.5 are supported, and you make a free account with an email address (Genbeta).

Good for: the real thing, pixel for pixel.

Worth knowing:

• It's unofficial and run by volunteers, not Microsoft, and not every feature works.
• It's Windows software from the 2000s, so it takes some setting up.
• Your friends have to set it up too, or there's nobody to talk to.
• When Genbeta tested the installer in 2019, one antivirus engine out of 59 flagged it. That was likely a false positive, but download it only from the project's own site, and make your own call.

2. The modern messengers

WhatsApp, Messenger, Discord and the rest are where most people chat now. They're fast and reliable, and everyone already has them.

Good for: talking to people you already know.

What's missing: the contact list that shows who's around right now, personal messages under every name, nudges, and the feeling of signing in for the evening. They're built around your phone number and notifications, not around hanging out.

3. Chat rooms

Chat rooms never fully went away. They're the closest thing to the old "who's online?" feeling for meeting new people: you walk into a room, say hello, and see who answers.

Good for: meeting people with the same interests. Our guide to chat rooms in New Zealand covers what to look for.

4. A new site built the old way

That's what we built. Chatroom isn't MSN and isn't affiliated with Microsoft. It's an original, free site that brings back how instant messaging felt:

• a contact list with Online, Busy, Away and Be Right Back,
• personal messages, display pictures and typed emoticons,
• nudges, sign-in sounds and "is typing a message…",
• chat rooms (including Throwback rooms) and group chats.

It runs in your browser on a phone or computer, with nothing to install, and your friends only need a link.

Good for: the feeling, without the setup.

Which should you pick?

• Want the authentic 2004 program and don't mind tinkering? Try a revival server.
• Just want to message your mates? Stick with what they already use.
• Want to sign in, see who's about and meet some new people, old-school style? Sign up to Chatroom free.