What is VOIP (voice Over Internet Protocol)?
This can be a great way to save a boatload of money on long distance calling, since most services allow you unlimited calls in the continental US and Canada for about $20 to $25 a month, some plans even less! Other plans allow you unlimited calls to Europe and Asia as well for a small additional cost.Just use your regular phone, plug it into the adapter box that the vendor provides (similar to the picture here), and then plug the other end from that box into your high-speed Internet connection. The only other thing you need to do after that is call!
As recently as a couple of years ago, broadband phones sounded like you were calling from the bathtub, but the quality today is as good as a regular phone in most cases, and the VOIP technology advances continue to improve the quality.
Be aware of what you are purchasing though. VOIP phone service is not a "one size fits all" type of solution, so make sure that the service you get meets your needs, and be sure you are clear on what is and is NOT included in the plan you choose.