| If you have a computer, a headset, and an | | | | calls with no monthly fees. Because services can |
| internet connection, you can make free PC to PC | | | | change from time to time, make sure you agree |
| phone calls to anyone in the world! The only catch | | | | with the terms and conditions before creating an |
| is that the person you are calling must also have | | | | account. Skype is the largest and most well |
| an active account with the same VoIP service | | | | known provider with over 190 million downloads |
| provider, and must be online to get the call. With | | | | to date. |
| any VoIP service, "in-network" calling (all callers | | | | * |
| subscribing to the same carrier) is always free, | | | | * |
| but most providers require that you pay a small | | | | * |
| monthly fee which allows you to make | | | | * |
| "out-of-network" calls as well. Since this article is | | | | * |
| about making totally FREE internet phone calls, | | | | * |
| only the VoIP providers that offer 100% free | | | | As with any software, your computer must meet |
| calling will be mentioned. | | | | certain requirements in order for the installation to |
| There are several internet phone service | | | | succeed. As a general rule, your computer should |
| providers that offer PC based phone calling, but | | | | have at minimum a 400 MHz processor, 10 MB of |
| only a few do not require a monthly service fee | | | | free disk space and 128 MB of RAM. You also |
| when you register. Because the PC to PC calling | | | | need a sound card, and either a headset with |
| service is free, you may have to put up with ads | | | | microphone or speakers and a microphone. Of |
| on your dial pad or be limited to a certain call | | | | course, you need an internet connection as well. |
| length, but for a free long distance call this is | | | | Software is available for PC, Mac and Linux |
| probably acceptable to most people. If you want | | | | platforms. Skype has software for Pocket PC as |
| to make calls to a landline phone, you can do so | | | | well. |
| by paying a low cost per minute (much less than | | | | PC based VoIP will work fine over a dial up |
| traditional long distance). | | | | connection of at least 33.6 Kbps, but be sure to |
| So here's how to make free PC to PC phone calls: | | | | close all email applications and don't do any web |
| Choose a provider, then download and install their | | | | surfing while talking because these processes will |
| free software (the software is a "dial pad" that | | | | degrade performance. For the absolute best |
| you use to make calls). | | | | internet phone calling experience, broadband is the |
| Register and get an account (you need to have a | | | | way to go. |
| valid email address). | | | | Free software-based PC to PC internet phone |
| Make sure the people you want to call install the | | | | service is a great way to "test the waters" if you |
| software and register with the same VoIP | | | | are interested in trying VoIP before jumping into |
| provider. | | | | a paid service. It's also perfect if you're on a tight |
| Enter your friends usernames into your contact | | | | budget and want to make some free long |
| list, and ask that they do the same (this allows | | | | distance calls. Anyone in the world can use VoIP |
| you to see that they are online and able to | | | | as long as they have an internet connection; just |
| accept calls). | | | | make sure all your friends and relatives use the |
| Plug your headset (with microphone) into the | | | | same carrier if you want to keep the calls free. |
| appropriate in/out audio jacks on your computer | | | | This type of VoIP service is not compatible with |
| (or USB port if applicable). | | | | 911, so it should not be used as your one and |
| Click on your contact and make a call - that's all | | | | only phone. If you want save a lot of money on |
| there is to it! | | | | your phone bill and use VoIP as your primary |
| Since PC to PC calling uses a technology similar to | | | | phone, consider subscribing to a hardware-based |
| instant messaging, most VoIP provider's software | | | | VoIP carrier like Packet8, Vonage, Lingo or |
| allows you to text message the person you are | | | | Voip.net. |
| talking to. Conference calling is also possible - just | | | | © Copyright 2005, Debbie Jacobsen. All rights |
| click on another active user and they can join in | | | | reserved. |
| the call! | | | | This article may be used without special |
| As of this writing, here are some VoIP providers | | | | permission as long as it remains intact, including |
| I found that offer free PC to PC internet phone | | | | live links. |