VoIP or Voice over the Internet Protocol is a technology for transmitting conversations over the Internet. Using programmes such as voipagain, voice data is sent over the internet rather than by traditional dedicated telephone circuits.
One advantage of VoIP is that the telephone calls over the Internet between people using the same software do not incur a charge beyond what you are paying for Internet access, much in the same way that you don't pay for sending individual e-mails over the internet.
voipagain also allows you to make and receive calls to International landlines and mobile phones.
How much does it cost?
If you already have a broadband internet connection, VoIP calls between people using voipagain is free. You can't call between voipAgain and Skype for instance.
Some programmes offer a call out service to landlines and mobiles all over the world at very cheap prices on a pay as you go arrangement. Some also offer a call in and voice mail service for a fixed annual cost.
Why should I use it?
If you already have a broadband Internet connection you could be saving money on phone calls from today.
VoIP is useful to everyone, but it really comes into it's own if you talk frequently to the same people. Students away at university, business and their suppliers or customers, parents of teenagers who seem to have a phone permanently stuck to their ear chatting to their friends could all benefit greatly from using VoIP.
What do I need?
To use VoIP you will need a PC or Laptop with a broadband Internet Connection, a VoIP Computer Phone and some type of audio hardware to talk and listen through.
Hardware
The hardware for using VoIP could be as simple as the speakers and a microphone that plugs into your PC or a headset with a microphone if you require a little privacy.
Alternatively, for the traditional telephone experience, you could use a telephone handset that plugs into your PC's USB port. Some of these are able to control the VoIP program through the handset. Cordless phones are also available.
Many Bluetooth mobile phone headsets, combined with a compatible USB Bluetooth adaptor, are also suitable and provide a wireless handsfree alternative.
There are also adaptors available that enable you to connect your regular phone to your PC & your landline at the same time. Some of these will also allow you to forward VoIP calls to another number via your landline if you wish.
