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Choosing an Internet phone
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About Internet phones
Internet phones connect easily to almost any computer, and use your home broadband connection to make calls over the Internet, which means your calls can be cheap or free even when calling abroad! And there's no need to worry about Internet technology, you can get handsets that look, feel and work just like traditional phones.
How Internet phones work
All our Internet phones come with everything you need to get started, including a helpful quick start guide to get you set up.
Internet phones work by using VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) to transmit voice conversations via the Internet. By using the Internet, calls between two Internet phone handsets are often free, like email – even if the callers are in different countries! You can call Australia for nothing, or connect to a mobile phone in Birmingham for pennies. You can even buy a normal phone number that lets other people call your Internet phone from any telephone.
What's more, you can enjoy extra services that use the power of the Internet. Video calls, conferencing, and exchanging photos and music are all possible over a VoIP connection. While having your PC close at hand means you can store phone numbers in your address book and dial them with a click.
Choosing a network
There are several Internet phone networks around, including Skype and BT Broadband Talk. As with mobile networks, most offer a similar service but with different calling costs and benefits. So when you choose your Internet phone, you'll also be choosing a network.
You pay for calls through a pre-pay account, much like some mobile phones – except it’s cheaper. Some providers, such as BT, offer 'bundles' of services giving you broadband and an Internet phone account on a single monthly bill.
Types of internet phones
There are various types and styles of Internet phone.
- USB phones are the cheapest way to get started. They simply plug into your PC or laptop's USB port, so they're ideal for calls when you're sitting at your computer or travelling as they also work with laptops.
- Desk Internet phones also use the USB port, but look like traditional corded telephones. They're great for more frequent use, or if you have a home office.
- DECT Internet phones are cordless telephones that use your broadband connection instead of the phone network. Since the handsets are cordless, you can move about your home or garden while you talk. They also come with multiple handsets, so you can have one in several rooms!
Desk and DECT Internet phones are also available as dual phones. These let you use just one handset for normal calls or Internet calls at the flick of a switch.
Choosing extras
Internet phones can make use of a wide range of accessories. Why not try video calling?
Webcams. These small cameras make VoIP fun, letting you set up video calls or
conferences.
Headsets. A headset keeps your hands free for other tasks – useful if you're working when a call comes in.
Don't forget
It is also sensible to keep a normal corded phone in the house for emergencies, as Internet phones like cordless phones won't work if there is a power cut.