Internet phone hardware can be a little complicated sounding for the uninitiated. However, once you get past the techno jargon, it really is not that difficult to understand. Plus, all you really need to know is enough about VOIP hardware to find what is right for you. Even if you are going to get open source VOIP hardware with your plan, it is still helpful to know what you are getting so that you can make the decision to upgrade if needed.
The VOIP phone, also known as IP phone or SIP phone has an Ethernet port instead of your typical phone jack, and connects to the internet modem instead of the phone line. It allows you to make calls like normal. It may have basic features like your home phone all the way up to features found on business phones. You may need a phone if your VOIP provider does not include one and to decrease the amount of devices on your desk.
The analog telephone adapter, also known as a broadband phone adaptor or VOIP adapter is used to convert your voice into digital data. Your VOIP provider should be able to provide you with one of these, or you can buy them online. The adapter connects your modem to your phone. This allows you to use the phone that you have on hand already, and some are small enough to be made portable so that you can take them with you when you travel.
A broadband modem, also known as a broadband router, is what gives you high speed internet. It is usually installed by your service provider, and your VOIP phones plug into it or the adapter does with a regular phone.
VOIP software, also known as softphone, VOIP client, dialer, PC telephone, and Netphone is only needed for computer to computer or computer to phone calling. It is the program that allows you to dial from your computer, and the user interfaces are designed to resemble phones, PDAs, or IM applications. It may be free or part of a VOIP service.
A headset with microphone is needed if you plan to use your computer as a phone. They may have one ear piece or two, and padded or ear bud style. Try a few before you buy to make sure that the style you pick is comfortable for you.
A USB Phone, also known as internet phone, computer phone, and PC phone can work if you do not like headsets. The phone plugs directly into the USB port on your computer.
Cordless/wireless VOIP phones work with a PC running Skype at its base station and use DECT wireless to eliminate interference with other cordless devices.