A Voice Over Internet Protocol or VOIP service that offers users several advantages over land based telephones is known as Skype. VOIP systems use the broadband connection on a PC as a phone line. A dedicated VOIP handset is what you may be able to purchase but even so, for most types of the call, it is not necessary.

With a PC, headset comprising earphones and a microphone, you are ready to get started. You can download Skype for free off the Internet and you can start connecting with your fellow Skype users once you have set up your user profile. The rates of calls to non-Skype users are lower than normal land line rates and calls to other Skype users are not charged for, but for international calls, there may be time limits.

Skype also facilitates video calls on PC, with a webcam and headset, to other Skype users as well as to mobile phones. For most smart phones such as Blackberry and iPhone, Skype also has an application. If you make calls on your mobile Skype-to-Skype, you do not use your monthly minutes either.

For businesses that operate globally, a very useful tool is the facility that Skype has for conference calls. You can make calls to other Skype users on PC or mobile if you do not have a Skype handset since you will need a handset if you want to phone a land line.

Not all Skype’s services are free, but they certainly will save you money compared to traditional telephony rates. You will have to pay a small fee if you want to receive calls from landlines and mobile phones that are not using Skype. For voicemail and text messaging, a small fee will also be incurred.

A number of payment options are offered by Skype in order to cover these fees. With these prepaid options, you will be allowed to pay an amount upfront. When you have used up that amount, you will have to pay again. You can buy Skype credits and pay the fees with those or another alternative is using monthly payments. In most parts of the world, a prepaid Skype card is available as well. Payments via Paypal, Moneybookers, and major credit cards are also accepted by Skype.

With Skype, calls dropped very rarely, there are no lagging or freezing of video, and it generally has good quality audio and video which means it offers quality VOIP service. If you have family and friends in all corners of the world or if you do business on a global scale, then considerable savings is what free calls on Skype will result in.

Find the best new deals on unlocked cell phones and shop our wide selection.