Microsoft is close to completely folding its Windows Live Messenger service with its VoIP Skype service it purchased last year. The company has confirmed with TruTower that it plans to sunset the service before the end of the first quarter of 2013, giving its users a few months to pair their Windows Live and Skype accounts.

The process of merging the two accounts is quite simple. For this process, we’re going to show users where they can find more information on this process as well as the process itself. First, point your browser to Skype.com. The first thing you want to do (after you sign in or sign up, of course) is click on “Profile” under the “Account Details” header. This will bring you directly to the profile page where you can edit your information.

From here, simply click on the “Learn more” link to the direct right of the header that reads “Microsoft account” and “Not connected.” This will come up with a dialogue box that will show you how you can merge your two accounts:

Next, simply start Skype, and enter your Microsoft account information under the account settings. Depending on your version (of which there are many), the Account settings page will be in a different location. For instance, in Windows 8, the account settings is on the lower right side of the screen after clicking on “Settings” in the charms bar and then on “Profile.”

Once you’ve done so, your accounts should be merged and you’ll be able to chat with your Skype and Windows Live friends all in one location. At this point, you can also choose to uninstall Windows Live Messenger and just simply use Skype from now on. If you’re using Windows RT, merging the accounts is the only option to allow you to stay in contact with your Windows Live Messenger friends since the IMing platform is not and will not be available for Windows RT.

Photo: VentureBeat