Voice Over Internet Protocol or VoIP is a process that enables users to make phone calls over the internet, rather than through a landline or home phone.

In order to make VoIP calls, a broadband connection is required and with broadband becoming more widely available to homes and business’s VoIP usage has really started to grow over the past few years.

The major advantage of using a VoIP service is low cost of calls. If you use VoIP to call a friend who also has VoIP (even internationally), then the call won’t cost you a thing. The only charge you pay is for your normal broadband internet service.

In order to get started with VoIP you’ll need some free phone or messaging service, a microphone and a pair or headphones or PC speakers. There are also integrated VoIP headsets available that will leave your hands free.

VoIP software that can be used include MSN Messenger, Yahoo Messenger, SkyPe and ICQ. All of the VoIP software mentioned is available free to download, and offer an easy install and setup guide to get you up and running with VoIP in a matter of minutes.