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VoIP - Voice over Internet Protocol

Or, in other words, making cheap and often free calls over the internet.

Sounds complicated but it's not. If you have broadband, you can use software to dial over the internet rather than using your telephone. Call charges are CHEAP and in many cases there's no charge at all. You can call other VoIP users computer to computer (this is free), land lines and mobile numbers and save a small fortune on international calls.

It's best to have a headset with a microphone which plugs into your computer, so that your conversation isn't broadcast to everyone in the room. Many 'VOIP Headsets' can be expensive but all you need is a standard set of headphones with a mic (cost: approximately €6).

It's also possible to buy VoIP phones that connect to your router, modem or computer and which function just like an ordinary phone. Phones that plug directly into your router work even when your computer is switched off.

VOIP providers, such as Skype, produce free software which uses Voice over Internet Protocol. So, you need to install this software on your computer.

VOIP providers

Skype – it’s free to download and you can add on voicemail for a small fee.

I think Skype is probably the best one to use. It's compatible with both Mac and PC systems and is very stable, and so many people use Skype you're bound to know someone who's already registered.

There are a few other providers that are worth mentioning however. I use both VoipBuster and VoipCheap because both providers offer free calls to landline numbers within certain countries. They are PC only compatible.

However, it's not exactly free! You have to buy credit and your credit expires after a certain time. You can only dial free to landlines if you have credit. Originally you only had to buy £1 or €1 worth of credit, making the service well worth using, but now it's £10. If you don't use your credit up on other charged calls you will lose it after a few weeks and need to buy another £10 in order to get free calls.

I now prefer to use Skype, but maybe they will suit you.

www.voipbuster.com

www.voipcheap.co.uk

www.voipdiscount.com

There's also:

www.voiptalk.org
www.vonage.co.uk ◊

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