Do you know that you can now make International calls for free without having to pay a single cent? This is possible due to the advancement of technology. It is commonly known as VoIP. VoIP stands for Voice over IP. It is not a new technology, and the whole concept is based on the IP protocol, which is what the Internet uses to transmit and receive data.



Many of us are already familiar with this protocol. But what some of us do not know is that the same IP protocol can be used to transmit voice data as well. If you use a normal desktop system, which is connected to the Internet, you may not be able to make calls simply because the IP protocol can only transmit digital data, and not analog data. Voice data, by default, is in analog format. Hence, you can't use a traditional phone to make a VoIP call.

What you need is either some special hardware or software that will help convert analog data into digital voice format. The voice is then transmitted over the public network via the IP protocol. Similarly, whoever is at the other end of the line will also need some special equipment to receive the data, and convert it back to voice.

Whenever you sign up with a VoIP network as a member, you will be advised on the equipment that is compatible with the network. Such equipment is also known as user agents. Many well established brand names are included in the list, so you can take your pick.

Once you have the equipment setup and installed, you can start making calls immediately. Bear in mind that you need to be connected to the Internet at all times. Therefore, it is recommended that you connect to a stable broad band network when making the calls. On a unstable or slow network, there may be a severe lag in the transmission and receiving of data.

If you are calling another member of the same VoIP network, you don't need to pay a single cent. For this reason, you should refer more of your family and friends to join the same VoIP network as you. Identify the people who are closest to you. These are the people you call most often. And refer them to the network so that they can join as members too.

Make an appointment if you think the call will take up quite some time. Have both parties connect to the Internet, and you can start making long distance calls without having to pay. In the event that you want to get in touch with someone who is not connected to the Internet, you can always use VoIP service to call land lines or cell phones. In this case, a fee is chargeable. But the calling rates are still way below that of traditional long distance calls. That means there will be an immense amount of savings for all members within the network.