What is a SoftPhone?
A VoIP Softphone
is an
application that enables a
desktop
or laptop
computer
to function as a
telephone
via VoIP
internet phone
technology.
This technology is also known as VoIP SIP phone or PC Telephone. Equipped with a
headset or a hand-held telephone device (usually connected to the
computer via USB cable), and using the numbers on the
keyboard
to dial, the computer with softphone software will function just like
a regular phone. There are hardware-based VoIP softphones as well. These
devices resemble a regular telephone, but they connect to a network
jack via a RJ-45 Ethernet cable. Just plug the VoIP softphone into an
active broadband jack and make your calls.
By simply
plugging an IP phone into the USB port on the PC, you can make calls
solely from the USB softphone - nothing to configure.
As with all internet phone
service, you need to have an active internet connection to use a VoIP
softphone.
Where To Get SoftPhone Software
If using a "hardphone" VoIP service:
Many traditional "hardphone" internet phone service providers
offer Softphone service as an add-on service, and you can download
free softphone software from them. This allows you to use
your regular account (and same phone number) in a portable way. If
you have VoIP service in your home and travel a lot, you may want to
consider using a Softphone while away from home. As long as you have
internet connectivity, you can make phone calls via the Softphone on
your laptop. If you want to use a permanent VoIP phone in your
home, but have the option to take a portable VoIP softphone with you
when you travel -
compare VoIP providers optional services to see what they have
available. Not all VoIP providers have softphone service
available.
Vonage the Broadband Phone Company offers a
VoIP SoftPhone as an option for subscribers of their regular
service. You can purchase a portable internet phone and use it
anywhere there is a broadband connection. This is a great option
for traveling! Take your softphone with you, and you take your
VoIP phone service with you wherever you go! Your phone number stays
the same!
If you want a pure softphone
VoIP service:
Several VoIP
service companies provide only VoIP softphone service. Calls
made "in-network" are always free, but you have to pay a small fee for
calls made to VoIP phones on different carriers and for calls made
from your PC to a regular phone or a cell phone. If you want to
take advantage of the money saving benefits of VoIP but don't want or
need a permanent VoIP phone in your house, VoIP softphone service is
for you! All you need is a broadband connection and a computer
with soundcard and headphone/microphone and you're all set.
Compare VoIP providers (below) and download free VoIP software to get
started.
Free VoIP Softphone
You can sign up for a free account,
download free VoIP softphone software and make a free phone call
from internet to other
folks that use the same service. This is a great free way to keep in
touch with international friends! You can call people who are not softphone users also, but charges will apply. If you’re on a budget
and just want internet phone service for occasional use, a free
softphone service may be the way to go.
Note: In order to use this
type of internet phone service, you will need to purchase either a
headset that attaches to your computer or a USB IP phone that attaches
to your computer. Since the softphone software is installed on
your computer, your PC acts as the telephone.
Below is information
on some of the best VoIP softphone service providers:
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VoIP Softphone Accessories
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To help make your softphone
experience as easy and convenient as using a regular phone,
there are lots of unique accessories available. |
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