VoIP is a revolutionary technology that has the potential to completely rework the world's phone systems. VoIP can turn a standard Internet connection into a way to place free phone calls. The practical upshot of this is that by using some of the free VoIP software that is available to make Internet phone calls, you are bypassing the phone company (and its charges) entirely.

Here are some free (or nearly free) software tools and sites that allow you to make computer-to-computer or computer to phone calls:

• Skype is one of the oldest and most recognized brands and its good to see that they still offer a free service If you like it, upgrade to SkypeOut and you can call landlines and mobiles all over the world!
• PrivatePhone provides a FREE phone number, with BETTER privacy features, and a voicemail that gives you MORE CONTROL over your social and professional life. Access your voicemail messages any time, anywhere over the phone or on the web.
• CallWave users SEE the Caller ID of the person calling and instantly HEAR the caller's message on their PC speakers! And best of all, click a button and talk to the caller on any phone they choose (home, office, or cell).

The interesting thing about VoIP is that there is not just one way to place a call. There are three different "flavors" of VoIP service in common use today:

• ATA - The simplest and most common way is through the use of a device called an ATA (analog telephone adaptor). The ATA allows you to connect a standard phone to your computer or your Internet connection for use with VoIP. The ATA is an analog-to-digital converter. Providers like Vonage and AT&T CallVantage are bundling ATAs free with their service. You simply crack the ATA out of the box, plug the cable from your phone that would normally go in the wall socket into the ATA, and you're ready to make VoIP calls.


• IP Phones - These specialized phones look just like normal phones with a handset, cradle and buttons. But instead of having the standard RJ-11 phone connectors, IP phones have an RJ-45 Ethernet connector. IP phones connect directly to your router and have all the hardware and software necessary right onboard to handle the IP call.


• Computer-to-computer - This is certainly the easiest way to use VoIP. You don't even have to pay for long-distance calls. There are several companies offering free or very low-cost software that you can use for this type of VoIP. All you need is the software, a microphone, speakers, a sound card and an Internet connection, preferably a fast one like you would get through a cable or DSL modem. Except for your normal monthly ISP fee, there is usually no charge for computer-to-computer calls, no matter the distance.