A Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) phone system requires the use of VoIP phones and there are several different types from which to choose. There are software based Session Initiation Protocol (SIP)/VoIP phones, USB VoIP phones, and hardware SIP phones. This is the new market for phone service. Providers of both telephone and Internet service have begun to offer their customers the opportunity to experience the new VoIP phone systems. They offer competitive packages and most have plans that give you the choice between limited and unlimited calling in the United States and Canada along with low International rates.

Software based VoIP phones require that you download a program to your computer. You can then use the downloaded soft phone program along with your computers microphone and speakers to make and receive calls. You can also use a headset with microphone if you prefer. This is a great choice if you use your computer for the majority of your communications. The software is easy to install and integrates well with other applications such as Microsoft Outlook.

USB VoIP phones plug into a port on your computer. You can then use them with VoIP software. They look and act like your traditional phone the difference being that the voice signal goes through your broadband service and not the Public Service Telephone Network (PSTN).

Hardware based SIP phones looks like your traditional phone. The difference being that they connect directly to your broadband network. These phones have a mini hub, which enables them to share the network connection with your computer.

You can use your current phone with VoIP services and connect it to the network via an adapter. The adapter uses an Ethernet cable that you use to plug the phone into the adapter and the adapter into the computer. You will find that setting up a VoIP phone is neither difficult nor expensive. It is highly recommended that you have a high-speed Internet connection for the service to work effectively.

IP phones look just like standard phones with a handset, cradle, and buttons and come with the standard connectors that you are accustomed to seeing. They also include an Ethernet connection as well. The purpose for this is to allow the IP phones to connect directly with you computer or router. They include the hardware and software required to handle IP calls. If you prefer to use your computer directly, you can also use VoIP for computer-to-computer calling. Certainly, this is the simplest method but you may experience a lower voice quality than with using an adapter or IP phone.