Q: If I have Cisco Jabber, do I still need my desktop phone set?
In many cases, Jabber users have had their desktop phones removed from the system by Penn State IT, thus eliminating the monthly rental charge. However, you will need to maintain your University-provider telephone number and voicemail. If you are new to using a softphone application like Jabber, you may want to experiment before disconnecting the desktop set.
Q: Does Jabber have multi-line functionality?
Mobile Jabber applications can not be used to manage multiple lines - only the Windows or macOS versions can do this. Therefore, if you are managing multiple incoming phone lines, you'll need to elect one of these options:
- Use your desktop set only.
- Have the desktop set removed and manage the multiple lines using the Jabber app for Windows or macOS.
- Keep your desktop set and also use the Jabber app for Windows or macOS.
Q: Does a Jabber device with cellular service also need to install the MyE911 location tracking software required by law?
No. MyE911 is to assist in dispatching emergency responders to accurate locations. Cell phones and tablets equipped with cellular service do not need the software because the provider will use their network to provide physical locations and addresses to emergency responders automatically. Learn more about MyE911.
Q: Can I create chat rooms for my department or group?
Jabber users can add multiple people to conversations. However, group Chat is only available with contacts using their Jabber service.
- Click on the "Add participant" icon within the chat window to add someone to a conversation.
- Next, type the name of the person you wish to add and click "Add."
Q: Does Jabber work with Basic Call Queuing (hunt groups)?
Only the Windows and macOS applications can accommodate queuing.
Q: How do I remove the Jabber toolbar at the top of my screen?
Yes. First, click the Gear Icon on the Cisco Jabber app to access the settings. Then select View, and uncheck "Show docked window" in the view menu. The dock should no longer display at the top of your screen.
Q: Are chat conversations saved?
Not at this time.
Q: Can I forward a voicemail message using the Cisco Jabber app?
Currently, voicemail messages cannot be forwarded through the Cisco Jabber app. However, jabber users can forward the transcriptions and the .wav files of voicemails received in their email.
Q: When I use Jabber on my mobile device, is it using my data plan?
If your phone is connected to a wireless network, Jabber calls will not affect your data plan. If your phone is not connected to a wireless network, Jabber calls will use your cellular data plan.
Q: How do I put a call on hold on my desk phone and resume the call with my Jabber app or vice versa?
- Select Hold.
- Go to the new device and select Resume.
Q: Will Jabber work with our O365 environment?
Cisco Jabber is compatible with O365 products to provide a "single presence." For instance, you can initiate chats or calls by hovering or right-clicking on a contact in an Outlook email or calendar event. Also, the Cisco Jabber app will tell you when contacts are Available and Away, like any other Instant Messaging app. It will also tell you when the contact is on a call using the University provided set, on a conference call, or in a meeting.
Q: Can I change my Availability status outside of the Presence information?
You can change your status between Available, Away, and Do Not Disturb with the drop-down menu under your name at the top of the Cisco Jabber window. Further, you can create up to three custom status messages for each availability status.
Q: Will Jabber work in my department's Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) environment?
Perhaps. We have seen Jabber used successfully in VDI environments, but your particular instance may need to be tested with the assistance of local IT support.
Q: Does Jabber offer screen captures?
Yes. The GlobalProtect VPN is required to enable this function in Cisco Jabber.
Q: Will Jabber send attachments?
Yes. The GlobalProtect VPN is required to enable this function in Cisco Jabber.
Yes. The GlobalProtect VPN is required to enable this function in Cisco Jabber. If not using a VPN, the website will time out with a very generic "site cannot be reached" message.
Q: Jabber is not functioning correctly. What should I do?
- The first step to correct malfunctions is to close the application and then open the application again.
- If this does not work, shut down your device, wait 20 seconds, and then restart.
- Next, you may need to check that you are using the most current software version.
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- Click the gear icon in the top right of the Jabber app.
- Select Help.
- Select Cisco Jabber, and the version number will be displayed in a pop-up.
- Compare your version number with the current version offered in softwarerequest.psu.edu.
- You can download the current version or contact local IT support for installation help.
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- If you continue to experience trouble, please contact us - Help Options.
Q: I had Jabber installed, but I no longer see it as an available option.
Because Jabber is a licensed product from Cisco, periodic audits are conducted and inactive accounts are removed. If you think this describes your situation, you can enable your service by submitting a new request for Cisco Jabber. If this does not describe your situation, please contact us - Help Options.
Q: How do I fix audio issues with Cisco Jabber?
Please see KB001157 - Cisco Jabber - How to fix Audio Issues.
Q: I've lost a device where Jabber was installed. What should I do?
We will disable the app configured for that device. Please contact us - Help Options.
Q: I am experiencing trouble with my Bluetooth headset when I need to switch my audio between apps, e.g., Jabber app, Teams meeting, or Zoom meeting.
Some Bluetooth audio devices have a built-in capability to seamlessly switch between multiple platforms, and others do not. As a result, you may need to un-pair the audio device from an application and pair it again when you want to connect it.
Q: Why do calls I make with Jabber sometimes show my Caller ID as my phone number and other times as my University email address?
This behavior is determined by the devices displaying your CallerID. For example, your phone number will be displayed if your Jabber call is received by someone using Jabber. However, some VoIP telephone sets will display your email instead.
Contact the Penn State IT Service Desk online at Get Support or 814-865-HELP (4357).
From Cisco
- Cisco Jabber Help Center
- Cisco Quick-Start Guide for Windows (most recent available)
- Cisco Quick-Start Guide for macOS (most recent available)
- Cisco Quick-Start Guide for Android (most recent available)
- Cisco Quick-Start Guide for iOS (most recent available)