Sending SMS Text Messages for Free

Sending Free SMS Text Messages from the Internet to Mobile Phones

Text Messages are fast becoming the most popular means of short message communication. Often far cheaper than a comparable mobile phone call on most mobile phone networks the SMS service offers a convenient and fast alternative to making a phone call.

Depending on which Mobile Phone (or cell phone) network you use, the cost of sending a SMS Text Message can vary from being included free in your monthly contract, to a few cents per message.

In the UK text messages can cost as much as 12p per text. Like the U.S some monthly contract phone deals can include text messages as part of the contract, others will charge a pro-rata amount depending on the network and the monthly line rental.

The most popular users of Mobile Phones and Text Messaging are teenagers, who account for a large precentage of mobile phone users and this age group alone, send millions of text messages everyday to all mobile phone networks, all over the world.

Since most Teenagers are not old enough to sign binding contracts with Mobile Phone Networks and Mobile Phone retailers, they often prefer to use Pay As You Go networks (PAYG), this system is also the method of choice for parents, who see PAYG as a method to monitoring their childrens' mobile phone usage, and so pre-paying for the phones usage as they use it, avoids the shock of an unexpected large mobile phone bill!.

Very few PAYG networks include the use of SMS Text Messaging for free, and so these become chargeable. Since this age group are also the senders of the most text messages, it's a ctach 22 situation with most of the mobile phone credit getting used up in text messages to friends!.

A viable alternative is to send free text messages using the internet, thus keeping the cost of sending text messages to the minimum and allowing more of the Mobile Phone Credit to be used for making calls.

Some Free Text Providers require the user to register to use their service, and this often concerns internet users that their information may be used for marketing purposes, or forwarded to third parties. Whilst most Free Text providers have a strict no spam privacy policy and will not share this information, there are always a few who will casually add their users onto mailing lists, and so it is wise to read privacy policies before registering with any website.

Some free text providers also include a mobile phone network comparator. This allows the user to search for the best current mobile phone network deal based on their existing monthly call charges and text message usage. This system is ideal to finding out how to save money on their current mobile phone tariff.

This article may be used on blogs, forums and websites provided the article is not modified and the credit below is included along with the active website link.

Send international SMS text messages for Free, without registering using the free sms text portal at http://www.blog-community.net/mobile_phone

The site also includes a Free UK mobile phone network comparison checker which is updated in real time and allows you to search for the best mobile phone tariff based on your existing monthly usage.

VOIP Cell Phone Enable World Communications

Voice over IP (VoIP) provides better service because it has greater bandwidth efficiency that allows for a higher quality of voice and data transmission. Rather than the traditional public switched telephone network used with land line phones, VoIP transmits voice, voice messaging, facsimile and other communication services via the Internet.

Moving to the next phase in cost effective VOIP cell phone calling plans - Unlike traditional copper wire phone systems that use an analog voice signal, Internet Protocol (IP) converts analog to a clearer, faster, digital format. Digital provides better quality and service and, because its signal can be compressed, it can perform a great many more communication functions.

Because voice over IP uses one infrastructure for both voice and data, it can provide better and more enhanced service at a lower cost. A main reason why costs are cheaper is because Internet access is billed per megabyte rather than per minute or per second like regular phone calls. As such, the cost for data transfer is much less than that of time connected.

Telephones that use IP technology are much more economical, with the best deals providing unlimited inbound and outbound telephone calls to anywhere in the world for one low, monthly price that is all inclusive.

This technology also offers many more capabilities than phones using a public switched telephone network. Among them are broadband Internet access, email, texting, video conferencing and faxing. You can even watch TV on your phone.

All the benefits of traditional phone service is available with voice over IP, including call forwarding, call waiting, caller ID, automatic redial, IVR, call blocking, speed dialing and conference calling. Not to mention, the new VOIP enabled cell phone services have a boat load of new features that leverage the Internet pipeline in new and exciting ways.

For example, voicemail is improved because it can be accessed from your phone, email, or Web browser; calls that route though VOIP cell phone technology and be channeled to many different numbers at the same time. A person can actually have a 6 way video conference on some of the new VOIP enabled cell phones coming into the market; telephone conversations can be recorded so you can save important information; and call broadcasting can send information to 30 people at one time.

Voice over IP is available on landline and mobile phones. Any type of calling can be done, including local, long distance, roaming, international and mobile. VoIP continues to grow in popularity because of the wide range of services it can provide. It's fast, efficient and reliable. VoIP also taps into wireless technology to provide even greater mobility.

With voice over IP, better capabilities are realized. In general, VOIP cell phone services or home phone services use many Internet connections to pass information all at the same time. In addition, obtaining a secure telephone connection is part of VoIP standard protocols. The VOIP technology also makes it easy to port phone numbers from one carrier to another.

Since IP protocol services both a standard telephone line and a broadband connection, savings can be realized because you are receiving both capabilities in one price, rather than paying separately for them.

Using this enhanced VOIP cell phone technology, there's no longer any need to pay separately for phone service and Web access no to pay for roaming charges or long term contracts that charge you an arm and a leg to make international mobile phone calls.

Earth-Phone.com offers wireless, cellular, and mobile phone sales and services. We are a Global Verge reseller offing the international call plans and the global mobile phones from Buzzirk Mobile. We distribute a variety of cell phone services to mobile phone users in over 40 countries with no roaming charges and no call limits. For more details visit - http://www.earth-phone.com

VoIP PBX Solutions For Businesses - What To Look For

Business communications has always been a challenging arena for management....subject to cost, function, reliability, and other pressures and concerns. The emergence of VoIP technology....and specifically application to PBX systems via IP based protocols....has provided an enormous opportunity for companies to reap many benefits.

Many companies today have multiple office locations around the country or around the world. Currently, each office uses its own PBX system and inter-office phone calls are routed through the PSTN and charged long distance and international rates by carriers. Most companies also employ workers on a part time basis who work from their homes. Those workers get reimbursed for telecommunication expenses they incur while performing their duties. It just makes business sense for companies to explore alternatives to consolidate their telecommunication systems and reduce costs.

The answer......purchase a Voice-over-IP enabled PBX system and deploy it in a Virtual Office setup.

Voice-over-IP (VoIP) is a fairly new technology for transporting voice calls over the Internet which allows users to realize substantial cost savings on long distance and international calls. Besides cost effectiveness, VoIP enabled PBX systems (or IP PBX) offer easy integration with existing telecommunications systems and are characterized with low operating costs as their upgrade is done through software updates rather than more expensive hardware replacement. Additionally, the technology simplifies the communication infrastructure (no need for separate voice and data cables) while offering high scalability.

Virtual Office models are used by companies that want to consolidate their communications, reduce costs and achieve more cohesive corporate images. To implement the model, a company has to install a single IP PBX system in its headquarters and distribute to employees IP phones or regular phones with VoIP adapters. Employees can make intra-office and inter-office phone calls through dialing PBX extensions. Such calls are routed through the Internet and are practically free. Company customers, on the other side, can dial a single inbound number plus extensions in order to reach the company's employees. The latter receive the calls on their IP/Regular Phones at any location in the world with Internet connectivity.

So what kind of a VoIP PBX solution does your business need? - a turnkey Virtual Office solution that could be customized to meet your company specific needs.

My recommendation for this solution is the highly acclaimed package from Packet8. Recently 8X8, Inc's Packet8 Virtual Office Solution for small and medium sized businesses received Network Computing Magazine's Editor's Choice award over competitive offerings from Covad Communications and Velocity Networks. That's some pretty stiff competition....and says a lot about Packet8's performance. The Packet8 Virtual Office solution received the highest overall rating for its rich feature set, call management tools and low subscription price.

The Packet8 Virtual Office is a cost-effective, easy-to-use alternative to traditional PBX systems that allows users anywhere in the world to be part of a VoIP-hosted virtual phone system that includes auto attendants, conference bridges, extension-to-extension dialing, business class voicemail and ring groups, in addition to a rich variety of other business telephone features normally found on high-end, premise based PBX systems. Their Virtual Office reduces an organization's telecommunications total cost of ownership (TCO) with a minimal initial investment combined with unlimited local and long distance business calling throughout the United States and Canada and Packet8's low international rates.

Now.....here's an overview of what to look for when making the business case for investment in VoIP technology for a VoIP PBX solution:

* Ways to save money for corporations.....

- Eliminate or reduce intra-office toll charges

- Avoiding service and support contracts on existing PBX hardware

- Eliminate the need for on-going Centrex services -- and charges

- Reduce expansion costs via lower costs for adds, moves and changes; lower user hardware costs

- Reduce the on-going costs for separate voice messaging systems

- Provide productivity benefits for remote and traveling workers who can be empowered with the same integrated capabilities as office workers

- Reduce user training and learning on phone and messaging systems

- Cost-effectively implement unified messaging

- Improve security

- Reduce systems downtime and improve performance

Additional benefits for call centers.....

- Virtualize call centers, allowing more flexibility in the center's configuration....either helping consolidation efforts, or providing enterprise capabilities to telecommuting call center workers

- Improve customer support services and reduce abandoned calls and call times

- Improve customer satisfaction and reduce customer turnover via improved call center services

Cost considerations....

- VoIP telecommunication hardware and software

- IP phone sets or soft phones

- Network upgrades for possible quality of service and performance upgrades

- Implementation labor and professional services

- On-going support and administration labor

- Support and maintenance contracts

- Increased support calls and potential user downtime losses on initial deployment

- IT Training

- User Training

- Write-off, write-down and disposal costs for existing telecommunication assets

Potential project risks......

- Quality of service/performance

- User training and adoption

- Administration and support skill levels and resources

- Proprietary vs. open systems interoperability

How Does The Solution Work?

Inter/Intra office calls.......

Caller A, who is located in the corporate headquarters, wants to make a call to Caller B, who is located in the corporate headquarters or in any of the company's offices worldwide.

Caller A picks up his VoIP device (IP phone, phone with adapter or softphone) and dials Caller B's extension.

The VoIP PBX server searches its internal database and obtains call routing information about Caller B The VoIP PBX server routes the call to Caller B's VoIP device.

If the destination number is unreachable, the system forwards the call to Caller B's voicemail.

As soon as Caller B picks up his VoIP device the conversation starts.

During conversation Caller A's VoIP device convert voice to digital packets and send them to Caller B's VoIP device and vice versa.

Both A and B can use traditional PBX functionality, like call on hold, caller ID, call forward, etc. Calls are free

Outbound calls.......

Caller A, who is located in the corporate headquarters, wants to make a call
to Caller B, who is a company customer.

Caller A picks up his VoIP device (IP phone, phone with adapter or softphone) and dials the customer's number.

The VoIP PBX server searches its internal database and obtains call routing
information about the VoIP carrier, who should terminate calls to Caller B's area code.

The call is routed to the VoIP carrier.

The VoIP carrier terminates the call to Caller's B number over the PSTN.

During conversation, Caller A can use traditional PBX functionality, like call on hold, caller ID, call forward, etc.

Calls are charged on time basis at pre-negotiated rates with the VoIP carrier

Inbound calls.....

Caller A, who is a company customer, wants to make a call to Caller B, who is a company employee.

Caller A picks up his phone and dials the company's central access number.

The VoIP PBX server prompts the caller to enter an extension.

Caller A dials Caller B's extension.

The VoIP PBX server searches its internal database and obtains call routing information about Caller B.

The VoIP PBX server routes the call to Caller B's VoIP device.

During conversation, Caller B can use traditional PBX functionality, like call on hold, caller ID, call forward, etc.

Calls are either free if the company uses a local access number or charged on a time basis if the company uses a toll free one.

Voice over IP (VoIP) technologies carry great promise to reduce telecommunication and networking total cost of ownership while empowering businesses with new capabilities and agility. When making your decision on deploying a Virtual Office VoIP PBX solution consider the strategic and tangible benefits as well as the costs and risks outlined above. If it all seems too overwhelming seek out the assistance of an unbiased independent advisor such as Business-VoIP-Solution

Michael is the owner of FreedomFire Communications....including DS3-Bandwidth.com Michael also authors Broadband Nation where you're always welcome to drop in and catch up on the latest BroadBand news, tips, insights, and ramblings for the masses.

The Lowdown on VoIP

It seems like technology is headed for a massive telephone change over. The traditional Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) is looking to be replaced by VoIP. VoIP is short for Voice over IP. VoIP is the routing of conversations over an IP network or the Internet. VoIP uses a packet-switched network instead of the circuit-switched voice transmission lines used by traditional telephone networks. VoIP does not need an Internet connection to work. A company that has a LAN connection with all of its computers can utilize VoIP technology.

VoIP is a great technology, but has a variety of issues with implementation. VoIP may face problems with latency because IPs do not provide Quality of Service guarantees, nor do they provide their packets of information in sequential order. High-speed Internet connections are required for VoIP and firewalls often prove tricky for VoIP technology. To combat this, many people use Session Border Controllers (SBC).

VoIP technology has many advantages. There are more new features with VoIP because of the lack of an International Telecommunications Union. VoIP is still very much an open market for developers, so the technology is constantly being improved. VoIP also has a lower cost than traditional sources because of the monopolies that exist or traditional phone companies being controlled by the government. Some users even see VoIP phone calls as free because they do not have to pay extra for the service. The user only pays the Internet service provider, and therefore the usage of VoIP seems to be free. You can also take your VoIP phone wherever you go because all you need is a network connection to make it work. VoIP technology will also benefit network agents who work for call centers. Agents can help callers from anywhere in the country with an Internet connection. Finally, because VoIP is on the computer, there is increased functionality. Conference calls can be held, information can be sent, and things like address books can be updated and shared over VoIP.

While VoIP has many advantages, there are a few drawbacks to the service. One of the biggest drawbacks is reliability. Telephone lines have back up generators in case of power outages, so phones can keep working. Because VoIP is connected to the Internet, a power outage will end a VoIP call when the computer shuts down. To combat this, users must buy an expensive uninterruptible power supply or a generator that must then be installed on the premises. Internet connections are also subject to disconnection, depending on crowded networks, and the quality of the ISP. If the Internet connection drops, then the VoIP call will be dropped. VoIP is also a problem for emergency calls. Because of the nature of the Internet and VoIP systems, emergency workers cannot trace calls. In the event that someone with an emergency has a problem but is unable to give an address, the emergency worker will not be able to trace the call and find the person. VoIP carriers are already attempting to fix this problem by implementing a technical work-around. Finally, it will be very difficult to integrate VoIP on a massive scale, because while the standard Plain Old Telephone System (POTS) has a common standard, VoIP does not.

VoIP has many advantages as well as some large drawbacks. The main roadblock in the way of global VoIP adoption is reliability. When VoIP proves that it can be just as reliable as traditional telephone services have been over many years, then it will start to be adopted. VoIP technology is always improving, so the problems with VoIP today are likely to be solved sooner than many people expect. VoIP can truly revolutionize both the business world and home life.

VOIP Questions and Answers

Voice over Internet Protocol, or VoIP, has grown in popularity recently and with that rise in popularity has come a number of common misconceptions and confusion. Global Value Conncet ( http://globalvalueconnect.com ) has complied this simple guide to address some of these most common questions and concerns.

1. What is VoIP and what does it stand for?
2. How do I make a VoIP phone call?
3. What equipment do I need for VoIP phone calls?
4. Are there any differences between making a local call or a long distance call?
5. Who can I call if I am using a VoIP service?
6. Are there any advantages in using VoIP phone service?
7. Will I be able to dial 911 emergency services?
8. Will I be able to use my computer while making a VoIP phone call?
9. Will I be able to take my phone adapter with me while traveling?
10. Does my computer need to be running in order to use VoIP service?
11. How will I know when I receive a phone call over my VoIP service?
12. Who regulates VoIP services?
13. What are the computer system requirements for VoIP?
14. Are free trials normally available?
15. How can I improve the sound quality?

1. What is VoIP and what does it stand for?

VoIP stands for Voice over Internet Protocol and it allows you to place telephone calls over a data network like the internet. It operates by converting your voice signal from your telephone into a digital signal that can then be transmitted over the Internet. The digital signal is then converted at the other end back to a voice signal that the other party can hear. When you use a phone with an adapter the calls are placed just like a regular telephone. You first hear a dial tone then the call is made. You are also able to place a call directly from your computer using a conventional telephone or microphone.

2. How do I make a VoIP phone call?

Making a VoIP phone call is no different from using a regular land line telephone. You pickup the receiver and listen for the dial tone. You can then dial your number as you always have in the past. The call connects to your high-speed Internet connection and travels to your local telephone company's equipment to a VoIP provider which transport the signal through the Internet to the local provider of the party you are calling. They relay the signal to your parties telephone. As an alternative, you may also place the call using your computer's hardware and software, entering the number through your keyboard. The signal is then sent through your cable modem to your local telephone carrier.

3. What equipment do I need for VoIP phone calls?

Your existing incoming high-speed Internet connection should be sufficient but the higher the connectivity the better the signal.

In terms of hardware, you can hook up an inexpensive microphone to your computer or connect a phone directly to a VoIP telephone adaptor (ATA). Or you can use a phone specially made to work with Internet Voice. This is called an SIP Phone. Each SIP phone is a network endpoint, and voice is routed via its IP address. It allows a DID (direct inward dialing) number to move with a user. You can move, add or remove stations and never have to call your interconnect/PBX service company. SIP phones also allow full use of advanced features like voice mail to e-mail and auto attendant.

4. Are there any differences between making a local call or a long distance call?

There are many different calling available for VoIP. The calling rates and fixed plans will vary from one vendor to another depending on the service you select. Please make sure to read all of the fine print associated with any plan that you choose.

One thing to keep in mind, however, is that VoIP can blur the difference between local and long distance by issuing a local number for your Internet phone. This allows you to make LOCAL calls to your home area code from that phone, regardless of where you are geographically. All you need is an Internet connection to plug in your phone, it doesn't matter what Internet provider you use, and you can call your local area code from anywhere in the world without paying long distance rates.

5. Who can I call if I am using a VoIP service?

Your calls can be made to any local telephone number, mobile phone, long distance number, or any international number. You may even use the service to speak with more than one person at a time. More importantly, the person you are calling does not need any special equipment; just a regular telephone.

6. Are there any advantages in using VoIP phone service?

If you are using a broadband internet connection, you don't need to maintain and pay the additional cost for a regular land line just to make telephone calls. With VoIP you're able to talk to many people at the same time. You can set up conference calls with your colleagues, staff, family and friends. VoIP allows you to reduce interconnect/PBX fees by enabling you to add, move and remove stations from your network without calling your service provider. In addition, you don't have to buy an expensive phone switch to set up your network. VoIP also offers many advanced calling features from caller ID and call forward to voicemail and distinctive ringing to call tracing and reminder calls, among many others. You can also manage your features through the Internet; log-in and customize services that normally you would have to rely on your provider to change - for a fee of course. Voice over Internet can lower long-distance fees by assigning a local telephone number to your VoIP phone. You will then be able to take your phone anywhere in the world, plug it into any broadband connection regardless of specific provider, and you can make LOCAL calls to your home area code. Parents can keep in touch with children at college; churches can contact missionaries all over the world; and businesses can connect branch offices in different cities.

7. Will I be able to dial 911 emergency services?

Some Internet Voice services have difficulty seamlessly connecting with the 911 dispatch center or identifying the location of Internet Voice 911 callers. Check with your local VoIP provider to determine if they can provide this service in your area.

8. Will I be able to use my computer while making a VoIP phone call?

Yes you most certainly will be able to use your computer while making calls on your VoIP network.

9. Will I be able to take my phone adapter with me while traveling?

You should be able to use your VoIP service wherever you travel as long as you have a high-speed Internet connection available. Your adaptor should work the same as when you are at home or in the office as long as you have access to a high-speed Internet connection.

10. Does my computer need to be running in order to use VoIP service?

Your computer does not need to be turned on but your broadband connection must be active in order for VoIP to functionproperly. However, if you are not using an adapter and choose to use a microphone or headset with your computer then your computer must be on.

11. How will I know when I receive a phone call over my VoIP service?

Your VoIP phone will ring like any other telephone.

12. Who regulates VoIP services?

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has worked to create an environment promoting competition and innovation tobenefit consumers. Historically, the FCC has not regulated the Internet or the services provided over it. On February 12, 2004, the FCC found that an entirely Internet-based VoIP service was an unregulated information service. On the same day, the FCC began a broader proceeding to examine what its role should be in this new environment of increased consumer choice and what it can best do to meet its role of safeguarding the public interest. In November 2004 they ruled that States do not have the jurisdiction to impose taxes on VoIP services, another victory for the consumer.

13. What are the computer system requirements for VoIP?

The specific requirements of any VoIP system must be checked with each individual VoIP provider.

14. Are free trials normally available?

You need to check with your selected VoIP provider to determine if a free trial is available. Most VoIP providers will provide some kind of free trial or conditional free trial period. If you are dissatisfied for any reason you should return the equipment in their original packing boxes together with all shipping paperwork and packing slips to ensure they will honor their warrantee.

14. Will I be able to use VoIP behind a firewall?

You need to ask your network administrator regarding any special setting that are required to function through the firewall.

15. How can I improve the sound quality?

• Speak with a headset instead of a microphone. Better still, use a phone with an adaptor.
• If you are using a microphone, hold it away from the speakers to avoid having the sound from your speakers recirculate into your microphone causing feedback.
• Lower the volume on your speakers.
• Check with your sound card manufacturer to be sure you are using the latest drivers.
• Use a direct phone jack. A split line or extension cord between your phone jack and computer can distort the sound causing an echo.

Global Value Conncet ( http://globalvalueconnect.com ) offers a wide range of VoIP products and services from the most reliable vendors at the most competitive prices. If you are in the market for VoIP services or curious as to what it may cost or how you may benefit then stop in and check out our products and services at: http://globalvalueconnect.com/VoIP.htm

Copyright 2004 Raymond Klesc

You have permission to publish this article electronically or in print, free of charge, as long as the bylines are included. A courtesy copy of your publication would be appreciated - send to info@globalvalueconnect.com

About The Author

Global Value Connect ( http://globalvalueconnect.com ) has been providing the best value in telecommunication products and services for the home or office since 1995. If you want to cut your telephone bill in half register today for our free eBook entitled "Telephone Bill Saving Tips for Home and Office" and is available at: http://globalvalueconnect.com/Saving_Tips.htm

How VoIP Works,Busting Out of Long Distance Rates

VoIP is the newest advancement in audio communications technology, and has a
variety of different applications that make it useful. VoIP stands for Voice
over Internet Protocol, and how VoIP works is actually quite revolutionary
because it streamlines the process of sending analog audio signals by converting
them to a much easier to send digital form for transmission.

To understand how VoIP works, you’ll need to understand the basic concept
behind regular analog audio communication as well, since this is the precursor
for VoIP. Analog phone calls are actually made via fiber optic networks by
digitizing your voice communications for sending the signal across thousands of
miles, but once it gets to the final destination (a home or office phone, for
instance), the signal is once again converted to analog.

During these calls, the switches remain open even while there is dead air and
no conversation is taking place; the circuit is also open in both directions
even when only one party is talking and the other is listening. This isn’t
terribly efficient, and slows down the communication of information
considerably.

Packet switching streamlines VoIP

VoIP works on a different premise -- rather than circuit switching, data
packet switching sends and receives information only when you need it instead of
in a constant stream. It also sends the information packets along whatever open
channels are available rather than a dedicated line, which is much more
efficient. The information is simply reassembled at the source.

The payload of each packet has a destination coded into it determining the
ultimate destination. When the computer at the other end receives all of these
packets, it will reassemble the information into useable form. This form of
sending audio data is extremely efficient because it always takes the cheapest
route that is also the least congested.

The compression of information and use of multiple routes in order to send
that information over the most efficient route makes sending audio over packet
switching quicker, much less expensive and more efficient. The number of calls
that can be sent is orders of magnitude higher than it was with the more
traditional analog circuit switching systems.

For companies, the savings in long distance charges can be in the hundreds or
even thousands of dollars per year. If companies also make extensive conference
calls, VoIP makes even more sense when combined with conferencing options such
as document sharing in systems offered by companies like Voxwire and iVocalize.

Different types of VoIP calling are available

• The most commonly used VoIP system is from one computer to another. To set up this type of service, you will need to have a sound card installed in both computers along with microphones and Internet connections. For practical purposes, you’ll want a broadband connection or DSL -- a dial-up modem will be so slow the sound quality just won’t be that good. Aside from that, all you need is a software package that can set you up with everything you need to use VoIP to make phone calls to whomever is also set up with the same system.
• You can also invest in IP phones if you want something that looks just like your standard analog telephones but with VoIP connectability. These simply replace the old-style RJ-11 connectors with Ethernet connectors (RJ-45). Hardware such as routers and the needed software are built right in.
• Analog telephone adaptors (ATA) enable you to connect a standard telephone to your computer Internet connection in order to take advantage of VoIP options. ATA converts analog signals to digital so that it can be transmitted properly via the Internet.
• The newest option on the market is the Wi-Fi phone, which uses short-distance Internet transmission of VoIP to replace cell phones calls. Wi-Fi broadcasts over the radio spectrum to cover short range areas for users in certain areas, and these “hot spots” have popped up across the U.S.

The upshot of VoIP is that standard long-distance charges may soon become a
thing of the past. As more and more consumers turn on to VoIP and broadband
connections make it easy and inexpensive (as well as practical) to make phone
calls over the Internet, fewer individuals will be willing to pay high rates to
make a telephone call they can make for free or next to nothing via their
computer.

VoIP saves you money on long distance

There’s no by-the-minute charges with VoIP, no set-up fees, and no “time of
day” or overages. That’s the great thing about VoIP plans. You just pay a
monthly fee and get to make all the calls you want over your computer for one
monthly fee. It’s so simple and elegant, and it’s the solution that everyone’s
been wanting and waiting for far too long.

You don’t have to wait for a certain time of day of day of the week to make
telephone calls with VoIP. There’s also the advantage of being able to use your
VoIP connection from anywhere -- remember, you’re not tied to a phone jack to
use your number, but an Internet connection, so you can call from anywhere with
many calling plans.

Some of the companies that offer excellent VoIP plans with unlimited calling
are listed below with their most popular options:

• Vonage currently offers a $24.95 per month unlimited VoIP package to anywhere in the U.S. or Canada. It includes voicemail, call forwarding, three way calling, call waiting and caller ID.
• Packet 8 can provide unlimited VoIP for $19.95 a month in the U.S. and Canada with a variety of features like call waiting and three-way calling, and can also give you video phone service for about $29.95 per month.
• AT&T’s CallVantage provides the usual U.S. and Canada broadband calling with voicemail, call waiting, etc. along with email, a call log and a ‘do not disturb’ option, all for $29.99 a month. You also get to keep your phone number for life, no matter where you go -- a great feature for some who move around a lot.

VoIP in web conferencing packages

VoIP is used in almost all web conferencing services as an alternative to
standard conference calls, and looking into these packages will give you an idea
of some ways to combine VoIP with extras such as white boards, document sharing
and video. For less expensive options, many companies can provide strictly audio
VoIP conference calls combined with text messaging and document sharing without
video.

Some companies that offer VoIP in web conferencing packages separate from
video conferencing are:

• Voxwire offers voice communication with features like auto-queue, mute options, individual speaker adjustments and moderator controls along with a “follow me” browser system so that all participants can view a shared desktop. Two persons can use VoIP for $9.95 a month, or up to ten in a conference environment for $29.95 per month.
• VoiceCafé provides similar services with a wide range of options that vary from packages with VoIP capability for five people at a time on a conference call to up to 500 in one conference call, all for a flat monthly fee. The prices vary depending upon what package you choose, and there are several.
• iVocalize offers VoIP along with Internet conferencing options like PowerPoint presentation capabilities and presentation recording for future playback. They also provide optional Unicode translation in thirteen languages. The most basic VoIP package begins at $10.00 a month with a prices going up incrementally depending upon your needs and how many will be involved in your conference calls.

It is obvious that conference calling as well as standard long distance
calling will be changing greatly in the near future as VoIP changes the
landscape of telephone service. “Land lines” for long distance calling will
eventually become obsolete as broadband becomes more common and makes VoIP just
as commonplace as any other type of telephone call.

And with the greater portability of soft phone options built into laptops and
the use of ATA phone adapters, the use of VoIP in the average home will arrive
sooner rather than later.

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USB VOIP / Skype Internet Phone - Free Calls

You might not know it but you can give BT a two-fingered salute and make calls to your friends and family for free using your internet connection.

All you need is our USB Skype phone and you can start making local, national and international calls for the very reasonable price of nothing whatsoever (between skype users).

Voice over Internet Protocol, or VoIP, allows you to use your broadband connection as a normal phone line but instead of paying minute by minute call charges, you pay no extra. We tested quite a few different VOIP phones before deciding to offer our customers this one as it represents the best value for it's advanced features we could find:

It does not require any software to be installed on your computer to use it, you just plug it in and it's ready to use straight away. It's sound quality is second to none due to it's acoustically isolated earpiece and microphone which eliminates echo.

There are 16 ringtones to select from according to your tastes, and features a built in 'on hold' function. The on screen display and menu are clear and easy to use, and can display your contact list, dialled calls, incoming calls, missed calls, and even your skype balance.

Imagine the conversations you could have with great aunt Ethel in Sydney via your Internet Phone.

The possibilities are as endless, and so might the call time be as It's free!

Main Features:

• Easy to install USB Plug and Play technology
• Conference calling feature
• PC sound card not required
• 16 ringtones to select from Acoustically isolated speaker and microphone to eliminate echo
• PC to PC and PC to phone operation
• USB 1.1 and 2.0 compatible no need for soundcard
• No external Power required
• Complies with h.323, MGCP and SIP protocol
• Echo cancellation, Noise reduction
• Full duplex communication
• Full control and functionality over Skype software
• Small and slender design - Reducing desk clutter
• Independent use of phone and sound card allows for VoIP call while listening to music
• Built-in 16-bit sound card
• Softphone volume adjustment
• No external power/driver required
• Easy to install USB Plug and Play technology
• Contents: USB phone with cable, CD, Funtions Instruction, Colour box
• Support softphone: Skype/MSN/Yahoo/X-PRO/StanaPhone/Net2phone/SJphone/Eyebeam/Firefly/Others
• Operationsystem:WindowsViSTA/XP/ME/2000/98SE
• Connector Type: USB type A. slave
• Power requirement: USB bus powered
• Dimension: 128x45x19mm
• USB VoIP phone compliant with Skype™
• Built-in speaker and microphone
• Compact design
• Can display your contact list, dialed calls, incoming calls, missed calls, and even your skype balance

If you have lost the driver CD you can download it by clicking here.

*To find out how cheap and easy it is to use, please visit Skype.

Summary: If both you and the person you are calling have a USB phone and a free to download "Messenger" program (Eg MSN Messenger) for their computer, or you are both Skype members, your calls will be totally free (that's 0 pence/minute!) anywhere in the world. If the person you are calling does not have a USB phone you can call them on their normal phone for very low rates but you need to join Skype. You can now also get SkypeIN free with your Skype account, so you can give your friends an actual UK landline number to call, that will ring on your USB Phone.

VOIP For Businesses - Are You Looking to Make Cheap Calls in Your Business Environment?

Discover what the VoIP service providers can offer you and reveal the communication secret business professionals across the world are using.

I'm sure that you've heard of Google Talk, Skype, and iChat for Mac for personal communication use, but what type of software and service providers are used in the business world?

First of all, what VoIP phone software has to offer:

• Easier access and less restrictions when making international calls

• Manageable over a single network

• Cheaper than traditional phones so you can make international calls on a daily basis

• Easy-to-use interfaces to easily manage settings

• VoIP software can also come with video conferencing, intercom systems, and other telephony software capabilities

One reason why VoIP is gaining corporate credibility is that it offers a solution for "unified communications." This means that phone calls (including mobile phones), faxes, e-mail, web conferences, and voice mail can all be used from one VoIP phone. There are even features such as dual-mode mobile phones, which allow the user to link their mobile phone service to a wi-fi network.

If you are looking for a general overview and comparison of VoIP service providers and their rates, you can visit rates voip webcites.

Here is a quick-list of service providers offering cheap rates:

• Lingo. This service offers a "Hello World Unlimited Plan" for $4.95/mo for the first 6 months, and $21.95, thereafter. Free activation and unlimited calling in 30 countries!

• Poivy. This is a service that offers a lengthy FREE TRIAL, ideal for international calls needed for a short length of time. After the free trial, you must pay a minute rate. Poivy offers "Free days" which are 90 days to call any country marked on the service's "Free List," SMS to all countries.

• VoipBuster. Another service which offers a FREE TRIAL. After the trial they offer cheap rates and free landline calls to a list of popular destinations.

One question many first-time VoIP users ask is, "Do I always have to call from my computer?" Well the answer is NO! You can create an account using an already established landline or mobile phone! Your VoIP service provider will give you the option 'calling from any fixed/mobile phone;' click on that and you can fill in your landline and/or mobile number as well as the country you are calling from. For example, I use Yacom by calling from Barcelona to their landline in Madrid; I hear an automatic answer and I dial my account number (this is normally free). A simple process like this saves me hundreds of dollars each year!

VoIP software technology has improved enormously, so the calls are now having good quality and can save your business loads of money.

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