Pros: Cheap, works well even on older hardware!


Cons: If you find it annoying, try running it on a spare obsolete computer!

Bottom Line: This product is great, but as Mordy points out, its sort of annoying to have the software running on your main computer and having to leave your computer on (especially since a computer like mine uses 300+ watts to leave on!).

But I found a great solution:
The magic jack doesn't need much to run- even an older Pentium III 500Mhz seems to handle it well, as long as it has a solid internet connection!
So, I dug up an obsolete laptop that was collecting dust, plugged it in and installed the magic jack on it.

Then under Windows power settings, I set it to stay on even with the lid closed, and never go into standby as long as it is plugged on.

I then plugged it into my home phone line, shut the lid of the laptop and hid it lying on its side next to my desk.
Now I don't have to look at the annoying interface popping up or deal with any software cluttering up my main workstation... plus, the old laptop only consumes about 20 Watts of electricity- much better than leaving my desktop on for phone calls!

I understand that not everyone has an old laptop lying around, but you can pick up an old outdated laptop for $100-$200 these days. Its still cheaper than paying 30+ a month for a phone line!  Permalink