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Ever heard of magicJack? This is a USB (PC connection) based device that allows you to make and receive phone calls from your PC using a high-speed Internet connection for $19.95 per year. What this means is local and long distance calls in the continental US for next to nothing. You can get rid of your 'land line' if you choose and use this exclusively.

But, there seems to be some controversy over the product and whether it performs up to par for those who install and begin to use the product and service.

What works well? The service is based upon what is called Voice over Internet Protocol or VoIP for short. This is the technology that allows voice signals to be sent over the Internet through a high-speed connection. The phones capture voice waves and converts them into digital 'packets' which flow through the Internet just as other data packets.

The magicJack product is compatible with Windows XP and Vista operating systems and Apple's Mac OS as well. Installation requires a small device that plugs into the USB port on your PC and software that installs onto your hard drive which communicates with the USB device. You can then send and receive calls in the USA, Canada, Puerto Rico, and the US Virgin Islands. The ultimate question about any product is 'does it work?' The answer is a resounding 'yes.'

One bit of advice, however. On Windows PCs, be sure to set a System Restore point before you start ANY installation. Some installers automatically perform this step, but be sure that it happens. That way, if this software does not work for some reason, then you can remove it via a System Restore. If you do not know how to do these steps, go to support.microsoft.com and search on System Restore and you will find instructions there for Windows XP and Vista.

What are the concerns? There are complaints about the installation of the software in that it has caused problems with PCs. Sometimes the software does not work properly and other times it causes other PC issues. This is the same with any software that you install. The finger of blame cannot be pointed at magicJack completely. There is a need to be vigilant in the installation and use of any software that you add to your PC.

Questionable Marketing Tactics. In advertising their product and service, magicJack promotes a 'free trial for 30 days' offer that is supposed to allow you to use the service in order to try it out. Many complaints have been filed that even though it is supposed

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