How to Use MagicJack & Skype

Skype and Magicjack allow you to speak to friends and family using the Internet.

The affordability of high-speed Internet has caused technology like voice-over Internet protocol (VoIP) to be more accessible in consumer households. MagicJack and Skype are two applications that allow you to contact other individuals either through your computer's microphone and speaker system or using your household telephone. Choosing between MagicJack and Skype is based solely on using your telephone for communication, or speaking through your computer.

Instructions

Magic Jack

1. Using your household telephone cord, plug the end of the telephone cord into the telephone connection port of the MagicJack.

2. Plug the other end of the MagicJack into your computer's available USB port (long and slightly rectangular connection). Your computer will attempt to recognize the new software and install the necessary drivers to ensure functionality. The software is built into the Magic Jack unit and will automatically install.

3. Register your Magicjack to receive your new 10-digit phone number after the software installs. You will be asked to register your device by importing your name, address, and other information. Once your location is identified, you will get your phone number to start making calls.

4. Pick up your phone, listen for a dial tone, and make a test call to ensure the MagicJack is working. You must be connected to the Internet at all times for the MagicJack to make and receive calls.

Skype

1. Visit Skype.com and download the newest software. Follow the prompts for registering your software by including your name, a Skype username, password, and e-mail address.

2. Type in a phone number you would like to dial by entering it in the box labeled "search contacts, groups, and conversation."

3. Click "Dial this phone number." A telephone keypad will appear to the right side of your Skype interface. Click the green call button to initiate a call. Calling other Skype users is free and charges may apply to call other non-Skype users. You will be prompted if a fee is involved.

4. Add contacts to your Skype account for quicker contact by clicking on the contact menu located at the top of Skype and clicking "add a contact." Type in the Skype name, full name or e-mail address to find the Skype user. You can choose to save a phone number to your contacts list or import people who may be located in your address book installed in your computer.

Tips & Warnings

• Skype is not a replacement for your cell or landline phone, and unfortunately, you cannot use Skype to dial emergency calls.

References

• Magicjack: Tech chat knowledge base
• Skype: Download procedure