Automatic Means Manual for Windows Messenger
In the past I have been hesitant to use the standalone version of Windows Messenger and instead found myself using an instant messenger that supports more AIM and MSN. But, ever since Trillian 3.0 came out, I have been disappointed in its capabilities. I had tried alternatives in the past like Gaim (Pidgin) but they were not what I was looking for.
It has been awhile since I had used the normal client for MSN, so I decided that I might as well try it out. I installed the latest version of Windows Live Messenger (I did not install the beta) and decided to give it a whirl. I think it's fine and for the amount of IM's that I send these days, it suits my needs perfectly.
My one problem with it is, it will never sign me on automatically. I do not have it configured to start up when Windows starts, but I do have it set to sign me on anytime I click on the icon from my start menu. Though for whatever reason, it continually makes me click "Sign In" for myself.
I guess nothing is automatic these days. Maybe next release.