How to Install and Activate the 3CX Desktop App on Windows (PWA & Windows App)
3 min read
Introduction #
If you regularly use 3CX to make or receive office calls, using the 3CX Desktop App can make your work a lot easier. You won’t need to keep opening a browser just to access 3CX.
3CX offers two desktop app options:
- 3CX Web App (PWA), an app created from the Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge browser.
- 3CX Windows App, an app installed directly on the Windows operating system.
Both apps offer the same functionality: making calls, receiving calls, sending messages, seeing your colleagues’ status, and joining video meetings.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to install, activate, and connect a headset to the 3CX Desktop App.
Before You Start #
Make sure you already have:
- An active 3CX account.
- An activation email (Welcome Email) from your administrator.
- A computer or laptop running Windows.
- A stable internet connection.
Note: If you don’t have a 3CX account yet, please contact your administrator or IT team.
How to Install the 3CX Desktop App Using PWA #
PWA (Progressive Web App) lets you use 3CX like a regular app without downloading any extra software.
If You’re Using Google Chrome #
- Open the 3CX Web Client in the Google Chrome browser.
- Log in using your 3CX account.
- Click the Install icon to the right of the address bar.
- Click Install.
- Wait for the process to finish.
3CX will now open in its own window, just like a Windows application.
If You’re Using Microsoft Edge #
- Log in to the 3CX Web Client using Microsoft Edge.
- Click the … menu in the top right corner.
- Select Apps.
- Click Install this site as an app.
- Select Install.
Once done, you can open 3CX directly from your Desktop or the Windows Start Menu.
How to Install the 3CX Windows App #
If your company uses the Windows app, follow these steps:
- Log in to the 3CX Web Client.
- Open the Apps menu.
- Select Windows App.
- Download the installer file.
- Run the downloaded file.
- Follow the installation steps until it’s complete.
- Once the app opens, log in with your 3CX account, or activate it using a configuration file from your administrator.
How to Activate the 3CX Desktop App #
After the app is installed, activate it by following these steps:
- Open the 3CX app.
- Log in using the account provided by your administrator.
- Grant permission for:
- Microphone
- Speaker
- Notifications
- Select the audio device you want to use.
- Make a test call to confirm the audio is working well.
Once all the steps are complete, the app is ready to use for work.
How to Connect a Headset to 3CX #
Using a headset makes call audio clearer and more comfortable. Many headsets also have buttons to answer or end calls directly.
Make sure the headset is connected to your computer before opening the 3CX app.
Using a Jabra Headset #
Steps:
- Connect the Jabra headset to your computer.
- Install the Jabra Direct app.
- Update the headset firmware if available.
- Open the 3CX app.
- Go to the Settings menu.
- Select Audio.
- Set the Jabra headset as your:
- Speaker
- Microphone
If successful, you can answer and end calls using the buttons on the headset.
Using a Yealink Headset #
- Connect the Yealink headset to your computer.
- Install the Yealink USB Connect app.
- Update the firmware if needed.
- Open the audio settings in the 3CX app.
- Select the Yealink headset as your primary device.
The headset is now ready to make and receive calls.
Using a Poly Headset #
- Connect the Poly headset to your computer.
- Install the Poly Lens or Poly Hub app.
- Make sure the firmware is up to date.
- Open the audio settings in the 3CX app.
- Select the Poly headset as your audio device.
The headset can now be used for calls through 3CX.
How to Switch Speaker or Microphone in 3CX #
If you can’t hear audio or your microphone isn’t working, follow these steps:
- Open Settings.
- Select the Audio menu.
- Under Speaker, select the device you’re using.
- Under Microphone, select the correct microphone.
- Save your changes.
- Try making a call again.
Common Issues & How to Fix Them #
Headset not detected #
Make sure the headset is properly connected to your computer before opening the 3CX app.
No audio #
Double-check the Speaker and Microphone settings in the 3CX app.
Headset buttons not working #
Make sure the headset’s companion app, such as Jabra Direct, Yealink USB Connect, or Poly Lens, is installed and running on your computer.
Can’t receive calls #
Make sure you’re logged in to your 3CX account and your status isn’t set to Do Not Disturb (DND).
Tips for a Smoother 3CX Experience #
- Use a good-quality headset for clearer audio.
- Always use the latest version of the 3CX app.
- Update your headset firmware regularly.
- Close other calling apps that might use the headset at the same time, to avoid conflicts.
