VoIP stands for Voice over Internet Protocol, technology that allows you to call anyone in the world and talk for as long as you want to - for free.
What do I need to get it?
As long as you've got a computer with a broadband connection, a headset consisting of earphones and microphone, and VoIP software, you can talk to anybody in the world, for hours at a time and it won't cost you a penny.
Most VoIP software packages are free - but the best known one is probably Skype is a hugely popular program for making free calls over the Internet to anyone else who also has Skype.
How does it work?
VoIP converts the analogue human voice into digital data and divide it into groups of numbers. Then it compresses the data, divides it into packets and sends it to its destination. Once there, it is reassembled in the correct order and converted from digital back to analogue - the sound of your voice.
What else does it do?
VoIP is a brilliant way to keep in touch with people without the hassle of having to write letters or run up expensive phone bills. The software is really easy to use and the call quality is generally as excellent as, if not better than you'd get with a telephone.
Go. Download Skype now. Talk to people. You'll wonder how you managed without it.
