VoIP, or Voice Over Internet Protocol, is an extremely popular method of communication these days and for good reason.

With VoIP, you no longer need to make expensive long distance telephone calls.
You can communicate over long distances for substantially less thanks to this technology.

All you need is broadband Internet access such as cable or DSL, and the right provider. The difficulty is not deciding to use this type of service, but rather choosing between VoIP providers. After all, there are so many of them out there and they offer a variety of great benefits and features.

• Calls between 2 people using the same VoIP service.

All VoIP services offer free calls to someone with the same VoIP service as you. A few services only offer this option.

• Calls between VoIP and a landline.

The majority of services, such as Skype and BT Broadband Talk, act much more like normal landlines in terms of functionality.
You can call landlines and mobiles very cheaply, and you'll often also be given (either for free or at additional cost) a virtual number that allows other landlines to call your VoIP service.
You can make particularly big savings if you make a lot of calls abroad.

VoIP is still mainly limited to use within the home, but increasingly VoIP providers are teaming up with mobile networks to offer VoIP calls on the go.
Notably, Skype is now available on selected mobile handsets, including a range of 3's mobiles.

• Computer based calls

Many VoIP users make calls directly through their computer. Users download free software, and then use a microphone to speak to other VoIP users online.

You can use a headset, a computer’s built-in microphone or a dedicated VoIP handset to make calls directly from your PC.
Calls sound clearer with a headset or VoIP handset.

The features and capabilities of services vary depending on which you go for, but with all computer based calls, the main limitation is that if your computer is switched off, so is your VoIP phone – you can’t call out and it won't ring if someone tries to call you.

• Calls using an adapter and your normal handset

If you want a service that looks and acts much more like a traditional phone, many providers offer adaptors that let you plug a normal handset into a broadband connection.

Adapters are more expensive than headsets (although some subscription services include them as part of the deal) but the advantage of using an adaptor is that you can make calls when the computer is switched off.