| If you're new to computer phone calling, you can | | | | physically use the computer to to talk, or dial. All |
| get a more detailed explanation of computer to | | | | you need is an internet connection and your IP |
| phone service described on the page "Computer | | | | Phone will work. |
| Phone Calls". | | | | 2(a). WiFi (Wireless Fidelity) IP Phone or WLAN |
| Essentially, you have three choices when deciding | | | | Phones are handsets used for making wireless |
| to utilize this type of service: | | | | 'voice over internet protocol' (voip) computer calls. |
| 1. Calling computer to computer is currently a | | | | They have a built in WiFi transceiver instead of an |
| very common, and in almost all cases, a free way | | | | port. All that is required to make a call is access |
| to use a computer phone service. With this type | | | | to the internet via a wireless hookup. Some Cell |
| of computer phone service, the person you're | | | | phone companies are designing their phones with |
| calling must have be signed up with the same | | | | WiFi usage. This means you can either use the |
| computer phone service provider. You use your | | | | standard cell network or make an internet call |
| mouse and keyboard to make and receive these | | | | using the WiFi network (commonly referred to as |
| calls. However you can get something called a | | | | a WiFi hotspot). |
| "softphone" or "USB phone" which allows you to | | | | 3. An Analog Telephone Adapter (ATA) is another |
| use a regular handset instead of your mouse and | | | | version of computer phone services. With this |
| keyboard. One of the most popular companies | | | | Adapter you can hook-up a standard phone to |
| being used today is Skype. For a fee, you can | | | | your computer or internet connection. Some |
| also acquire a phone number to call out or receive | | | | phone companies are including ATA's with their |
| calls in, just like a regular phone. | | | | normal service packages. |
| 2. IP (Internet Protocol) Phones are Internet | | | | Depending on the method of calling you choose, |
| phones and operate like a regular phone. Rather | | | | you may need to download software as well. |
| than a phone jack into the wall, they have a | | | | For more information on companies offering |
| connecter that connects directly to your router. | | | | computer phone services see "Computer Phone |
| With an internet phone, you don't need to | | | | Calls". |