What is Voice over IP?
VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) is a way of making phone calls over the internet using your broadband connection, rather than using a normal landline.
VoIP calls are a cheap alternative to traditional phone calls - here we explain everything you need to know to get started.
How does VoIP work?
VoIP uses the internet to make phone calls. Instead of picking up your normal home phone and dialling the number of the person you want to speak to, you use a broadband connection and computer to make the call. You can also make video calls with VoIP, so if you have the right equipment, you will be able to see as well as hear the person you are calling.
Some calls between VoIP users are free regardless of where they are in the world, while others are cheaper than normal phone companies.
What do you need to use VoIP?
First of all, you will need a broadband connection - the faster the better - and to download some VoIP software for your computer.
You'll also need some hardware, either a special VoIP handset phone (which some broadband companies will provide you with), an adapter which converts your normal phone handset to a VoIP handset, or a microphone and speakers or headphones.
How do I use VoIP to get cheap calls?
When you sign up for a VoIP service you'll be given a VoIP number which looks like a normal phone number. You'll also be able to set up a contact list of both other VoIP users and normal phone numbers. Follow your individual VoIP provider's instructions to make a call - it's all really easy and with a few clicks of a mouse you can be chatting away.
Who provides VoIP and how much does it cost?
The best known VoIP companies are Skype and Vonage but broadband providers such as BT, Orange and Plusnet offer VoIP too. In most cases calling other users with the same VoIP software will be free (i.e. Skype to Skype calls or Vonage to Vonage). Other calls will be charged but are generally cheap and some VoIP providers offer inclusive packages as well as paying per call.
Are there are downsides to using VOIP?
While VoIP calls may be low cost, they might not be as clear as on a traditional landline, especially if your broadband connection is slow or unreliable. If you are considering not having a landline in favour of VoIP-only, you need to consider what you will do if your internet connection stops working, especially in the case of an emergency.
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