Winpopup LAN Messenger

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Winpopup LAN Messenger
Developed by	Fomine Software
Latest release	5.2
OS	9x / Me / NT / 2000 / XP / Vista
Genre	LAN Messaging clients
License	Proprietary / Shareware
Website	www.winpopup-lan-messenger.com

Winpopup LAN Messenger is local area network (LAN) instant messaging software for offices and corporate networks. The messenger is available for Microsoft Windows, and is developed and distributed by Fomine Software.

[edit] Features and Availability

Winpopup LAN Messenger supports peer-to-peer and server-based modes. In peer-to-peer mode, no dedicated messaging server and no administration are required. Server-based mode offers additional features to increase privacy and security of communications.

As opposed to popular messengers such as ICQ, AOL or MSN Messenger, Winpopup LAN Messenger works over the local network (LAN), and does not require or use an Internet connection. According to the developers, this provides its target users with the required level of privacy and security, as no data travels outside of corporate network. To further increase data security, all messages are encrypted with strong RC4 cryptographic algorithm.

Group Announce feature allows group administrator sending an instant message to a group of employees. Group broadcasting and group chats allow groups of users to have real-time discussions.

The first version of the program was released in Summer 2002. It used to be based on Microsoft Messenger Service protocol supported by the Winpopup tool that is built in to all versions of Microsoft Windows, supposedly as a demonstration of the communication protocol. However, as Winpopup LAN Messenger evolved, it quickly dropped compatibility with Microsoft protocol for security and extensibility reasons. Currently, Winpopup LAN Messenger uses proprietary protocol for instant communications.

Since version 5.2 users are free to download and use Winpopup LAN Messenger on your network with up to three instant messaging clients.