Killing the Messenger

[Samanda]

Hello,

Thanks to everyone who offered me advice with my earlier issues.

My son is in junior high and he isn't doing well. Part of the problem stems from him using MSN Messenger all the time while supposedly studying. We've been through the pros/cons discussions of this and encouraged him to use it more wisely but it doesn't make any difference. He has a long list of contacts and the orange flashing tab on the task bar is permanently there.

Is there any way I could use the router (or an other method) to prevent access? I know a lot of people would disagree with this idea but perhaps people facing the same problem would be more understanding.

Sam

[Greenstead]

I don't think its a good idea to block MSN but its your home.

Disable ports in the router:
MSN Messenger
IN TCP 6891 - 6900
IN TCP 1863
IN UDP 1863
IN UDP 5190
IN UDP 6901
IN TCP 6901

But there are lots of other ways to talk to your pals.
And ways to block the ports:
http://practicallynetworked.com/sharing/app_port_list.htm

[cszeto]

You've splintered off this thread on to http://forums.practicallynetworked.com/showthread.php?t=7108, which is actually seeking additional information on this topic.