Hi Bonnie :-), If you are not getting a pop up window with "Messenger Service" in the title bar it's Windows Messenger. It starts by default when you start Outlook Express (OE) and it may be started by other programs. You can change it in OE by going to Tools \ Options and uncheck it on the General tab. For the ZoneAlarm alert, check the box to have it remember your answer, then deny permission. If you decide to use it later you can change this. While you're about it, I recommend you disable Windows Messenger Service. The first thing to understand is that the Windows Messenger Service is completely different from, and not in any way related to, "MSN Messenger", "Windows Messenger", or any other well-known instant messaging system. Therefore, disabling the Windows Messenger service will have no effect upon your use of any instant messaging applications. They will continue to work. You can disable the Messenger Service two ways. The easy way is to go to Steve Gibson's GRC Web site, download and run the 22 KB "Shoot The Messenger" utility for Windows NT / 2000 / XP. The Messenger Service was introduced in Win NT and is NA in Windows 98 & ME . Read the full explanation while you're there. http://grc.com/stm/shootthemessenger.htm Sven Swanson, Sr. ----- Original Message ----- From: "Bonnie :-)" <[log in to unmask]> To: <[log in to unmask]> Sent: Wednesday, September 08, 2004 3:16 PM Subject: [PCSOFT] ZA ? ZoneAlarm keeps putting up an alert... Server program Messenger trying to act as a server. I do not use IM messenging. I've been denying it but should I allow? TIA, Bonnie Rowley The NOSPIN Group is now accepting donatations to continue providing PCSOFT and our website. Visit http://freepctech.com to donate using Paypal