What should I check when a home landline or MagicJack phone stops working?
Answer
Power-cycle the MagicJack, modem, and router in order, confirm the phone cable is seated, and test with a second handset if you have one. Internet-based landline adapters need a stable modem connection before dial tone returns.
Before you start: stop right away if…
- During outages, keep a charged mobile phone available for emergencies.
- Ignore unexpected callers who demand payment or remote access to restore phone service.
Follow these steps
Unplug the MagicJack
Unplug the MagicJack or phone adapter from power and from the router if needed.
You should see: The adapter is fully powered off.
Restart modem and router
Unplug the modem and router power cords, wait 60 seconds, plug the modem in first, wait for its lights to settle, then plug the router back in.
You should see: Internet service returns on a computer or phone Wi-Fi test.
Power the adapter back on
Plug the MagicJack back into power and into the network path recommended by MagicJack, then reconnect the handset cable firmly.
You should see: Adapter lights return to a normal ready state.
Test dial tone
Pick up the handset and try a test call. If there is still no tone, try a second phone on the same jack to rule out a bad handset.
You should see: Dial tone returns, or every handset still fails and account/hardware support is next.
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Extra tips
What to look for: Whether any phone on the same line has dial tone, MagicJack or adapter lights, and whether internet still works on other devices.
Before you change anything: Note whether internet browsing still works. Unplug devices carefully and wait a full minute during reboots. Do not pay an unexpected phone “reactivation” fee from a cold caller. Keep the MagicJack account email available if reactivation is needed.