Windows Live Messenger Alternatives for Linux

Skype is a versatile communication platform offering free voice and video calls to other Skype users, as well as affordable calls to landlines and mobile phones worldwide. It provides instant messaging, file sharing, and screen sharing features, making it a comprehensive tool for personal and professional connectivity across various devices.

Pidgin is a free and open-source multi-protocol instant messaging client designed to connect users across various chat networks with a single application. It's highly extensible through plugins and supports a wide range of protocols including XMPP, ICQ, and IRC.

Telegram is a fast and secure cloud-based instant messaging platform offering robust privacy features, large group support, file sharing, and cross-platform synchronization, making it a versatile communication tool.

Mumble is a free and open-source voice communication application designed with low latency and high audio quality in mind, primarily for gamers. It offers features like positional audio, an in-game overlay, and strong privacy through encryption.

Tox is a free, open-source, and secure peer-to-peer instant messaging and video calling protocol designed for strong privacy and censorship resistance. It provides end-to-end encrypted communications without reliance on central servers.

Viber is a comprehensive messaging and VoIP application enabling free and secure calls and messages to users worldwide. It offers robust features for both individual and group communication across various devices.

Signal is a secure, open-source messaging application that uses end-to-end encryption to protect user communications. It offers text messaging, voice and video calls, group chats, and file sharing, all with a strong focus on privacy and security. Available on multiple platforms, Signal is a leading choice for individuals prioritizing confidential conversations.

Jitsi is a free and open-source suite of secure, flexible communication tools. It offers multi-platform support for voice (VoIP), video conferencing, and instant messaging, emphasizing privacy and ease of use with no account required to start a meeting.

RetroShare is a secure, decentralized, and open-source communication platform built on a friend-to-friend network, offering encrypted file sharing, serverless email, instant messaging, and forums.

Kopete is a versatile, free and open-source instant messaging client designed initially for the KDE Plasma desktop. It distinguishes itself by supporting a multitude of protocols, allowing users to connect to various chat networks from a single application.

ICQ is a veteran instant messaging platform offering a wide range of communication features, including text chat, voice and video calls, screen sharing, and group chats. It aims to provide a reliable and feature-rich messaging experience with a focus on privacy and security.

Psi+ is a robust, cross-platform XMPP/Jabber client tailored for users who prioritize control, privacy, and extensibility. As a development branch of the classic Psi client, it offers advanced features for secure and customizable instant messaging.

Coccinella is a free and open-source, cross-platform XMPP/Jabber client. It offers secure instant messaging, group chat, voice chat, and a unique interactive whiteboard feature. Designed with privacy and security in mind, Coccinella provides encrypted communications and supports various communication protocols for a flexible messaging experience on Windows, macOS, and Linux.