How to Set up an Online Answering Machines

Online answering machines function just like a regular answering machine. The difference is that you hook your phone line up to your computer. This type of answering service is compatible with both dial up and DSL Internet connections so it ensures that you don't miss a call while you are online. It allows you to listen to messages while they are being recorded and to download the messages at a later time.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Computer
• 20 MB hard disk space
• 16 MB RAM
• Voice modem
• Internet Explorer 5.0 or Netscape 7.0
• Internet access
• Telephone
• Microsoft Windows 95 and up

1. Check to be sure that you have all that you will need to run an online answering machine program. Common requirements for online answering machine software include a computer with at least 20MB hard disk space, 16MB of RAM, voice modem, Internet Explorer 5.0 or Netscape 7.0.
2. Test an online answering machine program before you buy. Some companies will offer the answering machines as shareware for a free trial basis for a few days.
3. Download the online answering machine to your computer. Save it in a folder you can easily locate.
4. Remove the end of the telephone line cord that is connected to your telephone. Find the modem port on your computer and connect the telephone line to your modem. Check that the other end is plugged into the wall jack.
5. Install the online answering machine program following the directions on the screen.
6. Configure the answering machine. Set the number of rings before the machine picks up, toll saver and silence detection. Also set a time limit for messages.
7. Set up a mailbox or multiple mailboxes and record your greeting. The online answering machine allows you to record a different message for each mailbox. You can also record a special message for calls from certain numbers.
8. Set a password which you will use to retrieve your messages remotely. You will also need to set a backup password in case you forget the first.
9. Set up email forwarding. Online answering machines can forward new messages to your email address.
10. Set alerts. The online answering machine will make an announcement when you receive new messages.

Tips & Warnings

• Online answering machines are particularly useful if you have a dial up Internet connection, since it allows calls to come through when you are online.
• Protect your computer from the possibility of viruses by installing an anti-virus program before you download software.

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