How to Make Internet Telephone Calls

Voice Over Internet Protocol, or VoIP, has become a popular new way to communicate. The technology allows you to make calls from your phone to a computer, or you can use your computer to call a friend's computer. Some sites, such as Google Talk and Skype, allow you to make PC-to-PC calls for free or for a small fee. Read on to learn how to make Internet telephone calls.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Headset

1. Launch Google Talk to sign in on your computer. Follow the steps to add your friends to your call list, then click on the phone icon next to your friend's name on the list to speak through a headset and speakers. Also, if you have an open chat window, you can switch by clicking "Call" to speak to the person.

2. Wait for the phone to ring online in Google Talk. Begin chatting when the person answers the call. A pop up window will appear that shows the name of the person you have called. Click the "End Call" button at the top of your contact list when you are done talking.

3. Download Skype if you prefer that software. Choose a user name, add friends to the contact list on your computer screen, then do a sound check of your computer's speakers and microphone before making your first call.

4. Call someone on Skype by clicking a name on your contacts list. Press the green phone button at the bottom of the list. Listen for a ring through your headset or speakers until the person answers the call. A new window will display your contact's name as well as the date, time and duration of the call.

5. Start talking once the other person answers the phone. End the call by hitting the red phone button at the bottom of your contacts list.

Tips & Warnings

• Google Talk allows you to have multiple calls at once, but you can only speak to one person at a time. The other calls are placed on hold until you end your first call.

• Skype software is compatible with Windows, Mac or Linux. Calls are free if they are made from one Skype account to another.

• Note that Google Talk and Skype do not support 911 calls. Have a land line or a cell phone available for backup if you have to make an emergency call.