VOIP services?

Ironic Namesake · 2 Oct 2007 at 22:35

Just bought a few VOIP handsets, and don't quite understand how they'll work, a little confused.

I assume I have to sign up for a VOIP service provider - who is the cheapest to go for?

Can I only call other VOIP handsets or also make cheap calls to landlines? Make lots of calls to Germany, Hong Kong, Netherlands etc. so if I could call cheap landlines would be ideal.

Can any number be assigned to the handset? IE. if someone calls the UK landline number, the call goes directly to a VOIP handset in another country?

Thanks , as you can tell I haven't used them before

The_TailGunner · 2 Oct 2007 at 22:37

I generally use skype, and have never had anything but good quality calls.

I hear other providers may be cheaper though.

deano · 3 Oct 2007 at 00:14

I use voipfone, with a voip ata. Been with them for about 15 months, very good service.

Hen_Dawg · 3 Oct 2007 at 13:48

Perhaps you are looking for a service like Vonage? No need for a PC inbetween I think
http://www.vonage.co.uk/

marmalade · 3 Oct 2007 at 15:37

Best using Voip Sip with a voip router such as the Thomson Speedtouch 780WL or the Billion 7404 into which one can plug bogstandard telephones. You need a voip supplier such as www.internetcalls.com you can also get an incoming number. I pay around 13 Euros for 4 month most countries inc the UK are free so have to use the money up on mobiles and 0845 /0870 type calls or just use and pay for the calls at the end of the 4 months then shortly before running out make another 4 month payment. Only 5 hours a week of free calls!! check it out!

Cupra · 4 Oct 2007 at 04:34

marmalade said:
Best using Voip Sip with a voip router such as the Thomson Speedtouch 780WL or the Billion 7404 into which one can plug bogstandard telephones. You need a voip supplier such as www.internetcalls.com you can also get an incoming number. I pay around 13 Euros for 4 month most countries inc the UK are free so have to use the money up on mobiles and 0845 /0870 type calls or just use and pay for the calls at the end of the 4 months then shortly before running out make another 4 month payment. Only 5 hours a week of free calls!! check it out!

thank you very much, vista 64 is just a problem for skype and this is cheaper too

wij · 4 Oct 2007 at 11:11

I have been using sipgate for a while and found it has been very good, even taken the phones abroad and had no troubles getting my 0845 number ringing in Australia, the US and Japan this summer

Very handy for people who need to call you when you're not in the UK as all they pay is a standard rate number and you don't have to pay to recieve the calls, unlike many mobile providers.