An instant messaging client may operate on a device and enable various forms of control of the device via instant messaging commands. The instant messaging client may connect to an instant messaging service using a user name and having a list of authorized users. The client may be able to sense that a user is on line and initiate a message session with the user. The user may also be able to initiate a session with the device through the instant messaging client and perform a variety of functions through the instant messaging session.