How to Make Magic Jack Work With a Dial-Up Network

Magic Jack connects to any standard telephone.

Magic Jack has helped many people save money by offering an inexpensive VoIP solution, often completely replacing their home phone services. The ability to transmit voice calls over the Internet has been a part of Magic Jack's money saving ability, usurping the need for operators, utility workers and maintenance crews. Magic Jack works on any compatible computer, generally any newer computer, with a connection to the Internet.

Things You'll Need

• Magic Jack device, activated and subscription paid
• Computer with Windows XP or higher or Intel-based Macintosh
• Dial-up Internet connection

Instructions

1. Plug your activated Magic Jack into any USB port on your computer.

2. Allow the Magic Jack autorun software to open the Magic Jack application and softphone. This usually takes about 1 minute. The application will read "Ready to Call" above the dial pad when loading is done.

3. Connect your dial-up Internet service. Once connected, make sure no unnecessary programs or applications are running, especially ones that use your Internet bandwidth such as chat or instant message programs.

4. Attempt to dial out with your Magic Jack. If your connection quality is high enough, you should be able to call out.

Tips & Warnings

• Magic Jack states that a minimum of 128kb sustained speed is necessary to use the service. However, the software is written in a manner that will allow it to run on any open connection. This is proven by Magic Jack's ability to run using cell based Internet connections, such as Verizon, AT&T or Sprint's 3G and 4G networks. These connections often cannot reach above 100kb sustained speed.

• Only a perfect combination of constant dial up speed quality, Magic Jack's application running smoothly, and no breaks in bandwidth will make using Magic Jack on a dial-up connection possible. Do not expect to get quality results using this method, or any other that requires the use of dial-up. Though the device is programmed to attempt to use any Internet connection, a broadband or high speed connection is recommended.

References

• Magic Jack FAQ: System Requirements
• Magic Jack FAQ: Internet Service Requirements