VoIP: Features explained
Make calls using your computer with a PC headset
VoIP equipment
VoIP calls using just your computer
Many VoIP users make calls directly through their computer using a microphone. To do this you'll need to pick a VoIP service, and then download the VoIP provider's (or a recommended third party's) free VoIP software.
You can use a headset, a computer’s built-in microphone or a USB VoIP handset (from around £10) to make VoIP calls directly from your PC. Calls sound clearer with a USB VoIP handset or VoIP headset.
The individual capabilities of different VoIP services vary, but the main limitation of all computer-based calls is that you can't make or receive VoIP calls if your computer is switched off.
VoIP calls using a handset or adapter
If you'd prefer a VoIP service that looks and acts more like a traditional phone, you could buy an adapter or VoIP telephone. A VoIP adapter plugs into your broadband router and allows you to attach and use a regular touch-pad telephone to make and receive VoIP calls.
A VoIP phone incorporates VoIP technology and usually has the ability to receive both VoIP and standard calls. It plugs into your router for VoIP calls and a regular phone jack point for regular calls.
Both VoIP adapters and VoIP phones usually enable you to receive calls when your PC is switched off.
You'll need to configure your adapter or VoIP phone with your VoIP account information. Some VoIP service providers, such as Vonage and Tesco, offer their customers the chance to buy this hardware pre-configured to their service.
Adapters and VoIP telephones are more expensive than headsets (although some subscription services include them as part of the deal) but the advantage is that you can make calls when the computer is switched off.
Types of VoIP call
There are two main types of VoIP call.
Calls between two people using the same VoIP service
Almost all VoIP services offer free calls between people with the same VoIP provider. A few services, such as GoogleTalk and Windows Live Messenger, only offer this option.
Calls between VoIP and a landline
The majority of services, such as Skype and Vonage, act much more like normal landlines. You can call landlines and mobiles very cheaply and you'll often be given a virtual number (either for free or at additional cost) allowing other landlines to call your VoIP service. You can make particularly big savings if you make lots of calls abroad.