When an outgoing call is requested, the Modem Manager selects a free modem, or queues the call until a modem becomes free. Once a modem is free, the call is dialed. The selected modem may be on a different PC than that requesting the call. The Modem Manager sets up transparent data paths between the modem and the requestor. In the event that the Modem Manager fails to complete the connection, it can retry the attempt using an alternative modem or modems, if they are available.