Abstract: A method for making a voice communications link is implemented using local and remote computers, each of which operates in an instant messenger environment and is connected to a data network. The local computer is equipped with a call forwarding device for connecting to a telephone network. The method includes: a) in response to an incoming phone call placed by a calling party and received by the local computer through the call forwarding device, enabling activation of the instant messenger function of the local computer for paging the remote computer; and b) in response to an acknowledge message issued by the remote computer to accept establishment of the voice communications link and received by the local computer through the data network, activating the instant messenger function of the local and remote computers for establishing the voice communications link.