A messaging portal brings together different wireless devices, messaging and data applications into one interface. The portal makes the interface very user friendly. The portal when connected to a mobile device through a desktop computer enables the mobile user to have access to instant messaging. The portal also supports message archiving. It implies that all the messages sent or received via instant messaging are saved in an archive and could be used for future reference.

Some Advantages of using the messaging portal:

The portal overcomes the stickiness of wireless applications.

It also increases messaging volume.

It increases interoperability with other portals and Internet applications.

It supports two-way messaging between portals and handsets.

It enhances MMS, EMS and anti-spam capabilities.

The messaging portal also allows access to instant messaging when connected to a server desktop. However, to use this functionality, individuals need to have certain components such as a portal server, access manager and instant messaging architecture.

The authentication process used by the instant messaging software in cooperation with Portal server and Access manager in a single sign-on environment is explained below:

1. The user logs in the portal server by entering the web site (URL) on a browser.

2. The access manager authenticates the user and the portal server downloads the URL on the user's desktop.

3. The user selects the instant messenger URL link from the Instant messaging channel on the desktop.

4. The browser initiates Java Web start or the Java plug-in.

5. The Java plug-in downloads the required instant messenger files and starts the instant messenger.

6. The instant messenger server asks for authentication to the access manager and validates the user. If the user is validated, the messenger shows the users contact list and the user is allowed to use all the features of instant messaging like chats, alerts, games, and polls amongst others.

The portal has simplified the instant messaging process.

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