There are surprisingly few requirements for Internet calling beyond your telephone. First, you'll need a high speed broadband connection. This includes cable modem and DSL. Most of you have those. According to Nielson//NetRatings, the percentage of households with broadband connection exceeded 50% for the first time in July, 2004. If you need a high speed connection,
click here
for cable modem service in your area.
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Why Cable Modem?
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Since most of us will get Internet calling to save money, it makes far more sense if your broadband connection is cable modem as opposed to DSL. This is because DSL travels over phone lines. Therefore, to keep DSL, you won't be able to get rid of your phone line even if you no longer use it for calling. This somewhat defeats the purpose of switching to Internet calling.
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The other thing you'll need is an adapter that will essentially make your existing telephone compatible for Internet calling. This will generally be provided by the carrier you sign up with, although there may be a charge for it in some cases.
That's about all you need: A telephone, a broadband connection and an adapter.
For a bit more detail on how it all comes together, and what other things you might need depending on your configuration, click the link below to the next page.
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Compare Internet Phone Providers
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Important Tax/Fee Update!
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As of July, 2006, the government will no longer collect the 3% federal excise tax on telecommunications. However, at the same time, VoIP providers will now be required to contribute to the Universal Service Fund, which helps subsidize service in rural and low-income areas. The contribution rate for this fund varies by quarter and can even vary by VoIP provider (because it is based on interstate call percentages). Initially, however, it is expected to be about 6.8%, and we have updated our tax/fee calculations accordingly.
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Now Includes Calls to 70 Countries
Local & long distance calls to U.S., Canada & Puerto Rico
Unlimited plan offers free calls to landline numbers in dozens of countries around the world. Calls to mobile numbers included for some of these destinations.
Prepaid Annual Plan (Save $60)
Local & long distance calls to U.S. & Canada
Annual plan prepaid at $239.99 per year ($19.99/month). Freedom Unlimited Global plan available that includes a variety of international destinations.
As low as $14.95/month with commitment
Local & long distance calls to U.S. and Canada
Pay monthly or save more by either prepaying for a year or paying monthly on a one or two year contract. 2¢ per extra minute on outgoing calls for exceeding 5,000 minute in a month.
Prepaid annual plan (save $40)
Local & long distance calls to U.S., Canada & Puerto Rico
Pay monthly or save by prepaying for a year. Free softphone (lets you use the service via laptop when you travel). Low international rates. Free calls worldwide to other customers.
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