What is 'instant messaging' or 'IM'?

What is 'instant messaging' or 'IM'?

Ward Leber (CEO) gives expert video advice on: What should I warn my child about instant messaging?; How do I monitor my child's chats and IMs?; Should I warn my child that I am monitoring his chats or IMs? and more...

Instant messaging is a way of digitally transmitting a message to someone's wireless or their hardwired equipment. You can send a message either to somebody's cell phone or to their email service. An instant message means it's getting there right away. So if I want you to know something and I either text message you or IM you, I'm going to be sending some information I want you to have and you're going to be getting it immediately.