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| Guide to Internet Telephony |
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What’s it all about?
Internet telephony (often referred to as VoIP) is when you use your computer
to talk to other people over the internet. These people might be on their own
computer or on the end of a regular phone anywhere in the world.
Why would I want to do that?
Put simply - money. Using the internet to bridge the ‘long’ in long
distance, call costs end up being cheaper than local calls. It gets better, as
calls to other VoIP users are free. So, the more people you know using it – the
better off you are.
What do I need apart from my computer and broadband?
1. VoIP Software – like Skype
2. Headphones / USB Phone / PSTN Adaptor – Read our Buyers Guide
Software
There are a few systems to choose from, each with associated pros and cons. We
feature Skype on our site because its very popular (over 147 million copies downloaded!)
and absolutely free. It also works on most computers including Windows, Mac OS
X, Linux and Pocket PC.
All your calls to other Skype users are free. This are called PC-PC calls, where
both people are using their computer and the internet for the call.
Calls to regular telephones and mobiles all over the world are at low rates These
are called ‘SkypeOut’ calls. To be able to make these calls you just
buy credit from Skype, like a pay as you go mobile.
Here are a few popular landline destinations. Prices are per minute.
UK
USA
Australia
France
Germany
Spain
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Next Steps
Get Skype
More reading
BBC News website's
Making phone calls over the net:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/technology/4254399.stm
Net phone calls explained:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/programmes/working_lunch/4243141.stm
Guardian Unlimited –Online
Making phone calls over the net:
http://www.guardian.co.uk/online/story/0,,1541770,00.html
Cut the hype and start talking:
http://www.guardian.co.uk/guardian_jobs_and_money/story/0,,1529308,00.html
Personal Computer World Magazine
Skype leads VoIP pack by a mile
http://www.pcw.co.uk/2140920
Skype - The most popular VoIP service
http://www.pcw.co.uk/2140773
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