Free VoIP - VoIP Softphone Service
PC to PC and PC to Phone Calling Over the Internet
There are many VoIP providers that specialize in internet softphone
telephone service. Unlike hardware-based VoIP solutions from
providers like Vonage,
Packet8, and
Voip.com
which are designed as a more permanent system (typically used as a primary
residential or business phone), VoIP soft phone service requires no
hardware to function.
As the name implies, softphone VoIP uses software installed on your
computer to enable SIP (session initiated protocol) telephone
connections over internet. PC to PC calling is free to other
subscribers using the same provider, and the software is free also.
PC to phone calls cost a few cents per minute, and for this you need to
prepay by adding funds to your softphone VoIP account. VoIP soft
phone service is similar to instant messaging (IM), except it is not text
based (although the software does allow you to send instant text messages
to other users as well). Softphone service is an ideal VoIP solution
for people who require portability, as all that is required is an internet
connection and a PC with the software installed.
Soft phone VoIP is not as convenient as simply picking up a telephone
and making a call - you first have to start your computer, establish an
internet connection, connect a headset or USB telephone, and start the
software. The upside is that there are no monthly phone bills as you
prepay for minutes before you can use them. You can also make cheap
long distance calls (usually just a few cents per minute) anywhere in the
world. As with hardware based VoIP, software based VoIP calls are
free between subscribers of same VoIP service provider.
Although VoIP softphone will work over a dial-up internet connection,
broadband internet is best. VoIP will work over satellite internet,
but latency issues normally cause a slight "delay" in sound.
Where to Get Free VoIP Softphone
There are many software-based VoIP providers to choose from, and all
offer a free download of VoIP software. When choosing a provider,
you should first think about who you will be calling, and encourage them
to get the same service. This way, you can talk for free with your
friends and relatives all over the world. Not all software VoIP is
created equal, so it's best to stick with the larger VoIP companies that
normally have software that is easier to use and set up. Below are a
few of the best VoIP providers offering the free softphone service.
Voip.com - The VoIP.com
softphone service requires a monthly plan, but you can get one for under
$4 a month. The unlimited calling plan is less than $15 a month.
VoIP.com is a top notch VoIP provider that specializes in residential
internet phone service.
Net2Phone is a large, reputable VoIP
provider that offers low long distance and international calling rates for
PC to phone calls. Net2Phone software installs quickly and setup
requires minimal effort. This is a good internet phone service
provider with a large subscriber base. Many people like to use USB
phones with softphone service, and most USB phone manufacturers include
drivers that work with Net2Phone.
Skype - is the
largest software-based VoIP provider in the world. Like Web Phone
and Net Phone, Skype is also free to download and set up an account with.
In an effort to increase their subscriber base, Skype is providing users
with free PC to phone calling within the United States for the remainder
of 2006.
Requirements for SoftPhone
The only equipment necessary to make a free phone call over the
internet is a computer with sound card, speakers, and a microphone, free
VoIP software, and an internet connection. SIP VoIP soft phone software
does not usually require much in the way of system resources, but it's
best to check the specifications before downloading.
For the best quality of call it is advisable to use either a headset with
microphone, USB phone, or a wireless IP phone. For a wide selection
of USB phones and VoIP phones at low prices, have a look on Amazon.com.
|
