PidginLinux
vs
Windows Live Messenger (MSN)Windows
Pidgin as a Linux alternative to Windows Live Messenger (MSN)
Updated
Our verdict
Pidgin is a solid replacement for Windows Live Messenger if you need a lightweight, cross‑platform IM client that supports multiple protocols. It works well for users who still use MSN or other legacy services via the libpurple plugin, and for anyone who wants to keep all their chats in one place. Those who rely heavily on the MSN‑specific features (like the built‑in Windows Live integration) may find the experience slightly different, but overall Pidgin covers the core functions.
- License
- GPL-2.0
- Price
- Free
- Latest version
- 2.14.14 (January 23, 2025)
- Rating
- —
What works the same
- Both allow instant text chat with contacts
- Both support multiple messaging protocols
- Both provide status messages and buddy lists
- Both offer file transfer
- Both give desktop notifications
What is different
- Pidgin does not have native Windows Live integration or the same look and feel
- It requires installing plugins for some legacy protocols
- It lacks the built‑in Windows Live address book sync
- It uses libpurple which may not support every MSN feature like certain emoticons
- It does not provide the same Microsoft‑specific branding and services
Opening your Windows Live Messenger (MSN) files
Windows Live Messenger used a proprietary .db or .dat format for chat logs and contacts that is not directly readable by Pidgin. There is no official tool to import those files; users typically export contacts to a CSV or vCard from the old client and then import them into Pidgin, or manually recreate the accounts.
Switching from Windows Live Messenger (MSN) to Pidgin, step by step
- Export your MSN contacts to a CSV or vCard file from the old Windows Live Messenger client.
- Install Pidgin from your distribution’s package manager or via Flatpak.
- Open Pidgin, go to Accounts → Add Account, and choose the appropriate protocol (e.g., MSN, XMPP).
- Import the exported contact list into Pidgin using the Import feature or by pasting the data into the buddy list.
Key features of Pidgin
- Supports over 30 chat protocols via libpurple
- Simultaneous login to multiple accounts
- Plugin system for extensions (e.g., OTR encryption, spell‑check)
- Buddy grouping and status messages
- File transfer for supported protocols
- Customizable themes and emoticons
- Logging of chats to local files
- Portable version via Flatpak
How to install Pidgin on Linux
flatpak install flathub im.pidgin.Pidginsudo apt install pidginsudo apt install pidginsudo dnf install pidginsudo zypper install pidginFrequently asked questions
Can I use Pidgin to log into my old MSN account?
Yes, if the MSN protocol plugin is still available in libpurple, you can add an MSN account in Pidgin. However, Microsoft discontinued the service in 2013, so the account may no longer be active.
Does Pidgin support file transfer from MSN?
File transfer works for protocols that support it. For MSN, if the service is still running, Pidgin can send and receive files, but the feature may be limited due to the discontinued service.
Will Pidgin show my Windows Live status?
No. Pidgin does not integrate with the Windows Live status system; you set status manually within Pidgin.
3 other alternatives to Windows Live Messenger (MSN)
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aMSNaMSN is a discontinued open‑source client that mimicked Windows Live Messenger on Linux.Open sourceFreeDiscontinuedaMSN vs Windows Live Messenger (MSN)