VoIP Software

Not all VoIP service providers are hardware-based like Vonage and AT&T. Many providers offer VoIP service through the PC, very often starting with PC to PC calls and extending to PC-Phone calls. Among these, some provide a softphone application along with the service, while others offer the service through their web interface. Most people using VoIP do so via softphone applications and services, like Skype for example, which is the most popular software-based VoIP service provider.

Below is a list of some of the most common VoIP softphone services and applications:

Skype
Skype is the most popular of all softphones, with hundreds of millions of subscribers worldwide. The Skype community is well developed on the web. Skype is also a VoIP service provider. PC to PC calls are free while PC to Phone calls (SkypeIn and SkypeOut) are paid. Skype's prices have taken a slight rise compared to other services of its like. The application is downloadable for free at www.skype.com

VoIPStunt
VoIPStunt is similar to Skype and Gizmo, with the difference of offering free calls to landline/mobile phones in a number of countries. Its rates are quite low and it is another competitor for Skype. The application can be downloaded free at www.voipstunt.com

Jajah
Jajah is the most popular of those services that don't require an application to be downloaded and installed. If you want to make a call, you go to their web interface at www.jajah.com, key in your number (phone or mobile number) and that of your correspondent and make the call. Your phone and your buddy's will ring and the call can start. The calls are quite cheap.

iCall
iCall is very interesting for people living in the US or Canada. Besides making PC to PC calls, your can make and receive PC to Phone calls for free in the US or Canada. If you live in other places, you can still call to the US or Canada for free. For paid calls, the rates are really cheap!

Raketu
Raketu has both its web interface and an application to dowload and install. Same services as with Talkster, but it has an impressive list of features, which include voicemail, conferencing, integrated media player etc. It is also interoperable with other instant messengers. Free call is allowed on trial but its span is quite limited.

Nimbuzz
Nimbuzz has interesting interfaces: for mobile phones (and any Java-enabled devices), for the web and for installation on a PC (Windows only). Chat and SMS are free, and calls are cheap. With Nimbuzz, you can call your friend on MSN or Yahoo with your mobile phone. The amount of things that are free in Nimbuzz is interesting.