There are several reasons why some people would want to disable windows live messenger. Some people find it a distraction especially in a school or work environment. So, some school administrators and office supervisors prefer to have this instant messaging software uninstalled completely or disabled for the meantime. Some people just can't quit chatting and get some real work done.
On the other hand, some folks find it an annoyance since it will pop up every time they start their computer. There are indeed times when you need the computer to load all the start up programs real fast so you can immediately get to the thing you were supposed work on. However, with an extra start up item such as an instant messaging client popping up, the computer's boot up process takes a bit longer.
Yet another reason why some computer users prefer to disable windows live messenger is simply due to the fact that they don't have any use for it at the moment. These folks may not really want to remove the program completely from off their computer system but would rather just keep it "deactivated" so to speak. In case they would need it some time in the future then all they have to do is to enable the client so they can use it as needed.
Installation Type
There was a time when Windows Live Messenger was available as a form of Beta software. So, many folks did go over some of the unique headaches that came with installing an application in such a developing stage. Nowadays, you don't have to put up with any beta testing since this instant messaging client now comes pre-installed in every new computer that runs any Windows operating system.
Well, the supported versions include Windows XP, Vista, and Windows 7 or any later version that may come up along the way. Install any of these operating systems and you'll definitely get this software installed in your computer as well.
Steps to Disable Windows Live Messenger
The actual steps to disable this instant messaging client are rather easy. However, the unfortunate thing is that it doesn't involve using any graphical user interface so feel free to feel like a computer geek typing up codes and doing all that fancy stuff. To start off, click the Start button or open the Start menu by pressing the button on your keyboard that has the Windows logo on it.
If you're using Windows XP click on Run to open the Run dialogue box. If you're using a Windows Vista or Windows 7 then type Run in the quick search bar and click on the Run in the search list that shows up. This will pull up a window labeled as Open. In the space provided, key in "services.msc" and then hit Enter.
A window with a list of programs will pull up on your screen. Find and double click Windows Live Messenger in the list. You will then be prompted to change the Startup Type–at this point choose "disabled." Next, click Stop when you're at the Service Status part and then click OK.