VOIP
From TheStudentWiki
Voice over Internet Protocol or VoIP is a technology that allows you to make/receive telephone calls over the Internet.
All that is required to make use of the service is a computer with a connection to the Internet, a microphone and speakers.
Calls made using VoIP usually work out cheaper than using a mobile phone or landlines as you don't have to pay line rental. Most services work on a pay as you go basis which makes them ideal for students, especially International students as many services charge the same low flat rate to anywhere in the world.
Skype
Skype is one of the most popular VoIP services as it allows you to make free calls to other Skype users.
To join the service, simply download the free software to your computer and set up a SkypeName. You then add other users to Contact List in the same way you would use MSN Messenger, all you need is the SkypeName of the user you want to add or you can search for somebody in the Skype Global Directory.
Skype also offers the SkypeOut service which allows you to make calls to most countries for a penny a minute (€0.02/min) and SkypeIn which allows you to link a real telephone number to your Skype account for £20 a year. Unlike a normal landline where you are assigned a number within your local area code, with SkypeIn you can choose from numbers all over the world. This means if your family lives in France and wants to call you in the UK, you can setup a French SkypeIn number which will allow them to call you at domestic rates.
You can use a standard microphone/speakers with the service but you will have a better quality call if you use a headset or a USB phone adaptor. Skype sells the Skype Starter Kit which includes a Headset, Skype CD-ROM and 30mins SkypeOut voucher for £10 and many Student Unions have given these away to new students at Fresher's Fairs.
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