If you’re new to computer phone calling, you can get a more detailed explanation of computer to phone service described on the page “Computer Phone Calls”.
Essentially, you have three choices when deciding to utilize this type of service:
1. Calling computer to computer is currently a very common, and in almost all cases, a free way to use a computer phone service. With this type of computer phone service, the person you’re calling must have be signed up with the same computer phone service provider. You use your mouse and keyboard to make and receive these calls. However you can get something called a “softphone” or “USB phone” which allows you to use a regular handset instead of your mouse and keyboard. One of the most popular companies being used today is Skype. For a fee, you can also acquire a phone number to call out or receive calls in, just like a regular phone.
2. IP (Internet Protocol) Phones are Internet phones and operate like a regular phone. Rather than a phone jack into the wall, they have a connecter that connects directly to your router. With an internet phone, you don’t need to physically use the computer to to talk, or dial. All you need is an internet connection and your IP Phone will work.
2(a). WiFi (Wireless Fidelity) IP Phone or WLAN Phones are handsets used for making wireless ‘voice over internet protocol’ (voip) computer calls. They have a built in WiFi transceiver instead of an port. All that is required to make a call is access to the internet via a wireless hookup. Some Cell phone companies are designing their phones with WiFi usage. This means you can either use the standard cell network or make an internet call using the WiFi network (commonly referred to as a WiFi hotspot).
3. An Analog Telephone Adapter (ATA) is another version of computer phone services. With this Adapter you can hook-up a standard phone to your computer or internet connection. Some phone companies are including ATA’s with their normal service packages.
Depending on the method of calling you choose, you may need to download software as well.
For more information on companies offering computer phone services see “Computer Phone Calls”.