An instant message is received from a first daemon corresponding to a first instant messaging application type originating with a first client, and transmits the instant message to a second daemon corresponding to a second instant messaging application type originating with a second client. A third daemon receives the instant message using communication protocol corresponding to the first instant messaging application type. A message switching unit acquires the second instant messaging application type corresponding to the third daemon identity, and acquires a second daemon identity. A fourth daemon transmits the instant message to the second daemon corresponding to the second daemon identity using communication protocol corresponding to the second instant messaging application type.