How do I set up my mobile for MSN?

Does anyone know if MSN WebTV can be used on a digital telephone line and if so, how must it be set up ?

• My aunt just changed her telephone service to digital through WOW cable, and now her MSN WebTV will not connect. Multiple calls to MSN WebTV Tech Support have yielded only one answer: "MSN WebTV will not work on a digital phone line." I find that hard to believe since most digital media will accept analog input. I also find it hard to believe that they are not working on a solution. Hopefully someone out in Internet Land does have a solution and can help me get my aunt re-connected. She is not comfortable with a PC, so this is her only Internet connection. If I can't solve the problem, she will have to cancel her service and not have access to the Internet. Help !

• Answer:

  Most all phone services today are digital and Webtv is compatible with them. The telephone service offered by WOW cable is Voice Over IP (VOIP). Consumers typically with VOIP are techies with a broadband Internet service, multiple computers, and a home network; VOIP is normally connected to the home network. The original Webtv is not compatible with VOIP. Microsoft has introduced a new product for techies to connect to their home network – MSNTV2. WOW has removed the technical aspect and greatly simplified VOIP. No home network required Therefore MSNTV2 is also not compatible with their new telephone service. Your aunt could sign up for the WOW Internet service and then purchase an MSNTV2. The MSNTV2 is a very different box. It’s biggest shortfall is there’s no access to “alt,discuss”. Most people on Webtv have many friends in the discussion groups available only to Webtv users. The MSNTV2 operates very similarly to Webtv, can’t get a virus, worm, or trojan, no spyware issues, etc. MSNTV2 will connect to the cable modem WOW provides with their Internet service. The MSNTV2 service is only $10 a month when connected this way. (Plus the fee WOW charges for Internet service. Their website does not disclose prices but states they have three speed options. The slowest speed / lowest cost service would be adequate). You can’t let her lose her Internet! Get the MSNTV2 or return to the traditional digital phone service!