What is a Softphone?
A softphone is an application that lets you make and receive phone calls using a computer or mobile device, instead of a physical desk phone. Columbus State is replacing Jabber, the current software, with Cisco Call, which is accessible in Microsoft Teams.
Set up Cisco Call
Two apps are needed for your softphone to work:
- Cisco Call (app in Microsoft Teams)
- Webex (runs in the background)
If you use a Columbus State computer, these applications should be installed for you automatically.
Getting started:
- Sign in to Microsoft Teams.
- Select Cisco Call in the left menu of Teams.
- The first time you use Cisco Call, you will be prompted to sign in to Webex.
If needed, install the Webex app here: Install Webex
Webex will ask you to:
- Confirm your email address
- Sign in with your Columbus State username and password
- Add your address for the Emergency 911 system (only if you are off-campus)
- Going forward, you will use Cisco Call in Teams to make and receive phone calls. Webex will run in the background.
Troubleshooting:
Don't see one of the applications you need? Expand the boxes below to see troubleshooting steps:
What if I don't see Cisco Call in Teams?
Cisco Call should be accessible in the left menu. If not, select the "View more apps" ellipsis in the menu to search for it. Pin the app for easy access later.
If you don't see Cisco Call in the full list of Teams apps, contact the IT Support Center at helpdesk@cscc.edu.
What if Webex is not installed, or I see an error message in Cisco Call?
If Webex doesn't open, or you see an error message like the one above:
- First, try opening Webex manually on your device
- If it isn't installed, or still won't open, you can install the Webex app here: Install Webex
What if I am using a personal device and do not have Teams or Webex installed?
You can install Teams and Webex for your computer or mobile device here:
- Install the Microsoft Teams app here: Install Teams
- Install the Webex app here: Install Webex
- Then follow the Getting Started instructions above.
IT SUPPORT FOR PERSONAL DEVICES: If you need to access phone services using a personal device, support will be on a best-effort basis only. IT can offer general guidance and setup instructions, but does not have control over personal devices or the applications installed on them.
Using the softphone
Once your softphone is set up, learn how to use it here: Using Cisco Call for Microsoft Teams
