How to Make Phone Calls With MSN Live Messenger

Make phone calls with MSN or Windows Live Messenger.

MSN Messenger, available in Windows XP, and Windows Live Messenger, available in Windows Vista and Windows 7, are instant messaging clients offered by Microsoft. Both applications have extra features, including the ability to place a phone call from your computer to any phone number. While the messaging clients are free to download and use, you will have to register with a fee-based voice service to use the calling features.

Things You'll Need

• MSN Messenger 6 or Windows Live Messenger
• Windows XP, Vista or 7
• Speakers and a microphone or a headset combination
• A half- or full-duplex sound card

Instructions

1. Start MSN Messenger or Windows Live Messenger.

2. In MSN Messenger, go to the "Actions" menu and select "Make a Phone Call," or "Call." If you do not see the toolbar menus, press the "Alt" key and they will appear. In Windows Live Messenger, select "Call a Phone."

3. Click the "Get Started" or "Sign Up" link to sign up with a voice provider if you have not already done so. After signing up for the voice service, return to the messenger window.

4. Type in the phone number you want to call into the "Call" box or click the phone pad buttons on the calling window and click "Call."

5. Click "Hang Up" in MSN Messenger or "End" in Windows Live Messenger when you have finished your phone call.

References

• Windows XP: Communicate with MSN Messenger 6
• Windows Live Help: About using voice and video in Windows Live Messenger