How to Make Free Internet Phone Calls

The Internet is a great place for free communication, from email to instant messaging, and telephone communication is no different. Landline services can be very expensive, especially if you want to make calls internationally. However, if you have a high-speed Internet connection, you can use voice over IP (VoIP) technology to call people for free.

Things You'll Need

• Headset with microphone

Instructions

1. Go to the Skype website and download the program. Although there are several VoIP providers, Skype is the only free one that allows you to make unlimited calls around the world. Once you click on the download link on the main Skype page, there will be a new installer icon on your desktop. Run the installer, and then restart your computer.

2. Get a Skype Name. This is the display name other Skype users will use to contact you. To get a Skype Name, click on the "Get a Skype Name" link at the bottom of the Skype window. A browser window will open, and you will enter personal information, including your name and email address.

3. Log in to the service. When you reopen Skype, you will see a log-in prompt. Enter the information you created in Step 2 into the log-in window. You will see a gray status icon pop up; once this icon disappears, you will be officially signed in to the Skype service.

4. Make a call to another Skype user by typing his Skype Name into the "Contacts" tab in the Skype window, then clicking "Enter." When the person you want to call is added to your contact list, a small icon next to his name will turn green when he is online and able to receive calls. Click on the name and press the green "Call" button. Once the other party accepts your call, you will be able to hear his voice through your headset.

Tips & Warnings

• You can also call landlines using the Skype service, but this is not free. You will have to purchase a SkypeOut plan to make these calls.

Resources

• Skype website