you now can stay logged on yahoo for up to two weeks. that is an option you have to choose. I have 2 computers and on the one i am always logged into yahoo even though i use another computer. Messenger is different. If you logg in another computer or even another prgram that allows you access to yahoo the open one will be closed. There is also another factor that I have found. If you have a cable conncetion like i have, and i believe it is true for all high speed conections, you remain on even though you logged out. I have logged out and always get pm's telling me that I was on at a certain time when i knew i was not. Also remember that when you are usuing another compute archives can be kept and your messeges can be viewed by anyone who goes to the archives and views them. There are seperate files for each account and you do not need a password to get into the archives. If your friend logs in at a library or some other public place most likely they have high speed and it will remain showing that she is on until she goes on at another computer and will only show that she is off is she is using dial up and logs off. hope that helps.