To use Messenger today, you must use a third-party server like Escargot , which emulates the original Microsoft servers.
Visit Escargot's Download Page to get a "pre-patched" version of the messenger. These versions are modified to connect to Escargot instead of Microsoft's defunct servers.
Run the installer on Windows 7. If you encounter errors with older versions (like MSN 7.5), you may need to right-click the shortcut, select Properties , and set Compatibility Mode to "Windows 2000" or "Windows XP".
If you are looking for past conversations from when the service was still official:
Open the app and sign in using your Escargot credentials. Ensure your screen name is followed by @escargo if required by the specific client version. Retrieving Old Chat Logs
Microsoft officially retired the service in 2013, replacing it with Skype. While "MSN Messenger 10" was not a standard release name—Microsoft shifted to the "Windows Live" branding for versions 8.0 through 2012—Windows 7 users typically used or 2011/2012 (v15.x/16.x) . How to Install and Use on Windows 7
Official support for MSN Messenger (later Windows Live Messenger) has ended, but you can still run classic versions on Windows 7 through community-run revival services. Current Status of MSN Messenger
Original Microsoft/Hotmail accounts will no longer work for sign-in. You must register a new account specifically on the Escargot website.