How can I call someone from the Internet?
There are a few different ways that you can make a phone call over the Internet:
- Use a Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) service: VoIP services allow you to make phone calls using an Internet connection, rather than a traditional phone line. Some examples of VoIP services include Skype, Google Voice, and Zoom. You can make calls to phone numbers or other VoIP users with these services.
- Use a messaging app with voice calling features: Many messaging apps, such as WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger, include the ability to make voice calls over the Internet. You can use these apps to call other people who have the same app installed on their device.
- Use a video conferencing app: Video conferencing apps like Google Meet, Microsoft Teams, and Zoom allow you to make voice and video calls with multiple people over the Internet. You can use these apps to hold meetings, have conversations, or even host virtual events.
To make a call using any of these methods, you will need a device with an Internet connection, such as a computer, smartphone, or tablet. You may also need to download and install the relevant app or service on your device. Once you have everything set up, you can start making calls to other people online.
There are several ways to make a call over the internet, also known as a "voice over internet protocol" or VoIP call. Here are some options:
Option 1: Use a VoIP App
One option is to use a VoIP app on your computer or smartphone. Some popular VoIP apps include:
| App | Platforms | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Skype | Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS | One of the most popular VoIP apps, allowing you to make calls, send messages, and share files with others |
| Zoom | Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS | A popular video conferencing app that also allows for voice calls |
| Google Voice | Android, iOS | A VoIP service provided by Google that allows you to make calls and send messages |
| Android, iOS | A messaging app that also allows you to make voice and video calls |
To use a VoIP app, you will need to download the app from the App Store or Google Play Store, create an account, and add contacts. Then, you can make calls to other users of the same app by selecting their name from your contact list and pressing the call button.
Option 2: Use a Softphone
A softphone is a software program that allows you to make phone calls using your computer. To use a softphone, you will need to install the software on your computer, and connect a headset or microphone and speakers. Some popular softphones include:
| Softphone | Platforms | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 3CX | Windows, macOS | A business-grade softphone with advanced features such as call forwarding and voicemail |
| X-Lite | Windows, macOS | A free softphone that allows you to make and receive calls and send instant messages |
| Linphone | Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS | An open-source softphone that allows you to make voice and video calls, as well as send messages |
To make a call using a softphone, you will need to enter the phone number or select the contact from your list, and then press the call button.
Option 3: Use a VoIP Adapter
If you have a traditional phone that you would like to use to make internet calls, you can use a VoIP adapter. A VoIP adapter is a device that connects your phone to the internet, allowing you to make and receive calls over the internet. To use a VoIP adapter, you will need to connect the adapter to your router, and then connect your phone to the adapter using a regular phone cord. Some popular VoIP adapters include:
| Adapter | Description |
|---|---|
| Obihai OBi200 | A standalone VoIP adapter that allows you to connect a regular phone to the internet and make calls using your internet connection |
| Grandstream HT813 | A VoIP adapter with three FXS ports, allowing you to connect up to three phones to the internet |
To make a call using a VoIP adapter, you will simply dial the phone number as you normally would using your regular phone.
Option 4: Use a Web Browser
Finally, some websites and services allow you to make VoIP calls directly from your web browser. To use this option, you will need to have a microphone and speakers or a headset connected to your computer. Some websites that offer this service include:
| Website | Description |
|---|---|
| Google Voice | A VoIP service provided by Google that allows you to make calls and send |
Here are some additional options for making VoIP calls
Option 5: Use a Hardware Phone
If you prefer to use a traditional phone but do not want to use a VoIP adapter, you can purchase a hardware phone that is specifically designed for use with internet calls. These phones typically have an Ethernet port that allows you to connect the phone directly to your router. Some popular hardware phones include:
| Phone | Description |
|---|---|
| Polycom VVX | A business-grade hardware phone with advanced features such as call forwarding and voicemail |
| Cisco SPA112 | A budget-friendly hardware phone that allows you to make and receive calls over the internet |
To make a call using a hardware phone, you will simply dial the phone number as you normally would using your regular phone.
Option 6: Use a Virtual Phone Number
A virtual phone number is a phone number that is not tied to a specific phone or location. Instead, it is routed to a specific phone or service, such as a VoIP app or a voicemail system. Virtual phone numbers can be useful if you want to have a phone number that is separate from your personal phone, or if you want to have a local phone number in a different city or country. Some popular virtual phone number providers include:
| Provider | Description |
|---|---|
| Grasshopper | A virtual phone system that allows you to choose a local or toll-free phone number and route calls to any phone or device |
| Google Voice | A virtual phone service provided by Google that allows you to choose a phone number and route calls to any phone or device |
To make a call using a virtual phone number, you will need to dial the phone number as you normally would using your regular phone. The call will be routed to the phone or service that is associated with the virtual phone number.
Option 7: Use a SIP Trunk
A SIP trunk is a service that allows you to make and receive phone calls using a VoIP system. SIP trunks are typically used by businesses that have a VoIP system or PBX (private branch exchange) system in place, and want to connect the system to the public telephone network. To use a SIP trunk, you will need to have a VoIP system or PBX system in place, and a SIP-enabled router. Some popular SIP trunk providers include:
| Provider | Description |
|---|---|
| Bandwidth | A provider of SIP trunks and VoIP services for businesses |
| Twilio | A cloud communication platform that offers SIP trunks and a range of other communication services |
To make a call using a SIP trunk, you will need to dial the phone number as you normally would using your VoIP system or PBX system. The call will be routed through the SIP trunk and out to the public telephone network.
Here are some additional options for making VoIP calls:
Option 8: Use a Conference Call Service
A conference call service allows you to make a phone call with multiple participants. This can be useful for meetings, webinars, or other situations where you need to communicate with a group of people. Some popular conference call services include:
| Service | Description |
|---|---|
| GoToMeeting | A web-based conference call service that allows you to host meetings and webinars with up to 250 participants |
| Zoom | A video conferencing service that also allows for audio-only conference calls with up to 1000 participants |
| FreeConferenceCall | A free conference call service that allows you to host conference calls with up to 1000 participants |
To use a conference call service, you will need to sign up for an account and schedule a conference call. You will then provide participants with a phone number and access code, and they can join the call by dialing the number and entering the code.
Option 9: Use a VoIP Service Provider
A VoIP service provider is a company that offers VoIP services, such as phone numbers, calling plans, and features such as voicemail and call forwarding. Some popular VoIP service providers include:
| Provider | Description |
|---|---|
| Vonage | A provider of VoIP services for businesses and individuals, including phone numbers, calling plans, and advanced features |
| RingCentral | A provider of VoIP services for businesses, including phone numbers, calling plans, and advanced features such as virtual meetings and voicemail transcription |
| Ooma | A provider of VoIP services for individuals and small businesses, including phone numbers, calling plans, and advanced features such as voicemail and call blocking |
To use a VoIP service provider, you will need to sign up for an account and choose a phone number and calling plan. You will then be able to make and receive calls using the provider's service.
Option 10: Use a Cloud PBX System
A cloud PBX system is a phone system that is hosted in the cloud, rather than on-premises. This allows you to make and receive phone calls using your internet connection, rather than a traditional phone line. Some popular cloud PBX providers include:
| Provider | Description |
|---|---|
| 8x8 | A provider of cloud PBX systems for businesses, including phone numbers, calling plans, and advanced features such as virtual meetings and voicemail transcription |
| RingCentral | A provider of cloud PBX systems for businesses, including phone numbers, calling plans, and advanced features such as virtual meetings and voicemail transcription |
| Nextiva | A provider of cloud PBX systems for businesses, including phone numbers, calling plans, and advanced features such as call routing and voicemail transcription |
To use a cloud PBX system, you will need to sign up for an account and choose a phone number and calling plan. You will then be able to make and receive calls using the cloud PBX system.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are many different options for making calls over the internet, also known as VoIP calls. You can use a VoIP app, a softphone, a VoIP adapter, a web browser, a hardware phone, a virtual phone number, a SIP trunk, a conference call service, a VoIP service provider, or a cloud PBX system. Each option has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the best choice for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Whether you need a simple way to make calls from your smartphone, a professional-grade solution for your business, or something in between, there is likely a VoIP option that will meet your needs.