is there any way i can stop messenger being installed or run on a work pc,the problem is i have no controll over the network so i need a basic software solution
Which messenger? You can do some Group Policy editing that will prevent users from installing, or running certain apps, or you can make their logins User accts with limited access, and no installation privileges. In the Add/Remove Programs, you will see a button to Set Program Access, in which you can disable Windows Messenger. You can also "uninstall" Windows Messenger thru Add/Remove Windows Components.
provided you have a legit version of windows if you go to microsoft.com and download the "shared computer tool kit" there is an option to block windows/msn messenger all together as well as load of other handy utils like a drive restorer that undoes changes to your system on every reboot. ive used it on a few PCs ive built which students have access too and it works great. however to install the toolkit you need to be logged in as Administrator
