I suggest starting by looking at an open protocol -- namely Jabber . There are plenty of code examples and you'll have the added advantage of being able to add multi-network support (if desired). You might also be able to enlist some help from BigBlueBall as well.
BigBlueBall
Junior Poster in Training
54 posts since Dec 2004
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There's thousands of people doing that, millions of resources on the net about it.
Just use a search engine instead of sitting here waiting for someone to do it all for you.
jwenting
duckman
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