There are different ways to set up Internet Phone. One requires the installation of software on your personal computer. This software then allows voice communication with other persons who have installed the same software on their PC. Of course, both computers must be connected to the Internet, preferably via a broadband connection. Additionally, calls can be made from the PC to normal landlines, but a charge is incurred. It is also possible to receive calls on the VoIP-enabled PC from a landline, depending on whether the option is avaibale from the VoIP provider. In this case, the subscriber is given a phone number which, when dialled from a normal phone, is redirected to the PC connected to the Internet.
Another method involves the supply of a "black box" by the VoIP vendor. This device also connects to the Internet, but does not require the use of a PC. A handset is directly connected to the "black box", and calls can be made in the same way as using a traditional phone.
As for the PC-based VoIP system, both inbound and outbound calls can be handled between VoIP phones and traditional landlines.
The call rates are extremely attractive for internet telephony. Calls made from PC to PC (or "black box" to "black box") are usually free, while calls made from the internet phone to a landline are charged at a fraction of the traditional landline to landline rates.
So check out the various VoIP offerings and start saving big time on your phone bill!
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