Due to the sad state of the message boards, logging in can be a bit tricky. But if you follow the steps below, you shouldn't have too much trouble.

1) Sign up for a Windows Live ID, if you don't already have one. You'll need to supply an e-mail address. (Note: All users may need to re-register in a few months, once we've set up the new version of the Fray.)

2) Click on the "Post a Message" link and attempt to log in.

3) If prompted, enter your username and password.

4) You will be redirected to a blank white screen. The URL in your address bar will begin with "http://login.live.com/ppsecure/post.srf," followed by a long string of code.

5) Paste the following URL into the address bar: http://slate.com/?id=3936&post=1&tp=fixfray

6) At this point, you should be able to use the Fray as a regular, logged-in user. If you're still having trouble, our Fray editors should be able to help. Please write to .