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Making VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) calls may sound complicated and techie, but it is actually quite easy, and can save you a fortune in long distance and international calls. You may not be familiar with the name VoIP, but you are more than likely familiar with some of the software packages available. How to […]
Making VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) calls may sound complicated and techie, but it is actually quite easy, and can save you a fortune in long distance and international calls. You may not be familiar with the name VoIP, but you are more than likely familiar with some of the software packages available.
How to place a VoIP call
There are several ways to make VoIP calls, but each requires an internet connection. You can make calls via your mobile, computer or landline. This is managed by different apps and software packages, depending on which format you are using.
The main thing to remember is that the person you are calling has the same service as you. Most of the services offer calls to any mobile or landline, but you will be charged for direct calls instead of using the free VoIP service.
Some free apps for your smartphone include Skype, Vtok, FaceTime and Viber. Skype is also available for the computer and landline. Viber and Reptel offer computer software packages as well. There are more services available, and what you choose will depend on personal preference for you, as well as your family and friends. Remember, this is key, as using the same service is what results in free calls.
Phone-to-phone calls. If you have a smartphone with internet access you can call landlines and mobile lines worldwide using free downloadable apps like Skype and FaceTime (only for the iPhone)which allows you to make free calls to anyone using the same software.
The beauty of this method is you are not constricted to a PC in any way. For international travelers, this is a must. International roaming charges are brutal, and data roaming even more so.
If you are feeling homesick, or just want to touch base while traveling abroad, park yourself in a free Wi-Fi spot, get your internet connection, fire up the app, and viola’- free international calling.
You can also use your landline to make VoIP calls, but this can be expensive, and you’ll have to buy a special £20 adapter to connect your home phone and broadband to re-route the calls.
Remember, the apps are free, so try them all to see which one you like the best. Also remember you can use a 3G or 4G connection (especially when making video calls), but it can eat up a lot of your data time, and if you are in data roaming, forget it. Use free Wi-Fi whenever you can.
Computer-to-computer and tablet calls. You should never have to pay for a call made from your computer to another computer – ever. Again, the key is using the same software on both ends of the call.
Computer-to-computer calls can keep you somewhat tethered, but with the multitude of portable devices available today that’s far from necessary. The greatest advantage of using larger computers is that the faster hardware and more consistent connection results in a better overall experience, especially if you are using video.
Computer-to-phone calls. This type of VoIP works similar to computer-to-computer calls, with a small but significant difference. Since you are calling an actual phone, and not an internet phone, there will most likely be a charge. Some providers will allow you to make these calls.
Calling in the other direction – that is, from phone to computer should not incur the cost, but check with your personal provider to verify their policy.
Calling phones from your computer can be expensive, so it is usually better to initiate the call in the other direction, or using specialist providers.
