One of the latest and greatest thing in telephone service is free internet phone – also known as voice over IP, abbreviated VOIP. Free VOIP service turns your voice into a digital signal that is sent over the internet to the person that you are trying to call. You can use a VOIP phone, a traditional phone with an adapter, or make calls directly from your computer.

Using free internet phone services may mean that you can make free internet phone calls to other VOIP telephones. Some services will allow you to select an area code other than the one you live in; however, this may mean that people calling you will receive long distance charges. However, free VOIP calling may mean that you can afford bonuses, like voicemail or caller ID, that you would not normally be able to add to your phone because of the additional cost.

When you make free internet phone calls, your computer is your phone. While free internet phone calls and free internet phone service often refer to domestic rates only, there are some companies that allow you to make free VOIP international calls using their free VOIP software. Even if it is not free, you international rates are often much cheaper than with a traditional landline or a cell phone.

Since you can find broadband VOIP phone service for free, free VOIP sometimes can offer you the same or better services at a lower cost than it would to put them on a traditional land line phone. In some cases, you will avoid the need to pay for both a broadband connection and a traditional telephone line.

To make a free internet phone call, you need both free VOIP service and a broadband connection, as well as an internet phone. Some companies may give you a free internet phone when you sign up for their service. If you do not have a phone, you can use an adapter to attach your home phone, or simply use a microphone and speaker with your computer.

In order to figure out which VOIP service provider is right for you, take time to research your options. Different companies will offer different packages and options. Many times, you will need to consider who you want in your calling area, particularly if you want to choose an area code different than the place you live in. If you make a lot of long distance calls, this too should be considered.