There are various solutions for people that loves chatting over most famous instant messaging clients. These are the all in one multi programs that allows to use multi protocols in just one software. Most famous are:
There are also various multi protocol instant messaging via web, useful if you can’t use the applications (eg. because they simply are not installed or because blocked by firewall/proxy): eBuddy XMS
Some advantages you can benefit using all in one solutions:
– multiple accounts as you want (also for the same protocol)
– save computer resources (if you have an old pc; for example Windows Live Messenger and Skype use more cpu and ram than all in one alternatives)
– multi OS (generally they are available for various operating systems)