In this week's Reader's Mailbag, one reader seeks help accessing IM after his school blocked his "IM lifeline."

Q: Is there any other way for IM users to access their contact lists where a firewall is present, outside of Meebo? My school just blocked access to this IM lifeline and now, once again, I am without access to my friends! HELP!--Eddie P., Houston

Dear Eddie:

Lucky for you, portable applications are making their way into our computer culture, allowing people like you and I to access a number of great services, including IM, without a download to a computer. In fact, all you need is a decent USB drive.

There are a number of portable instant messengers now available on the World Wide Web, including two great selections, Miranda and Pidgin Portable.

These applications are available for free and are easy to set up and use. Once downloaded and installed to your USB drive, you can run the client at school or anywhere else you may be challenged by a firewall or other obstacle. Happy IM time, Eddie!

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