Most of you probably already know this being the super online wiz kids that you are in order to have found this site!!! However voice over IP, internet phones is a really effective and cheap, well its free…ish, way of keeping in touch with friends and family across the globe. This I dare say if very important if you are working part time in the UK.
Here are a few providers :
Ekiga
Ekiga (formely known as GnomeMeeting) is an open source VoIP and video conferencing application for GNOME. Ekiga uses both the H.323 and SIP protocols. It supports many audio and video codecs, and is interoperable with other SIP compliant software and also with Microsoft NetMeeting.
http://www.gnomemeeting.org/
Google Talk
Google’s as ever took a clean sheet and their venture into the voice over IP and instant messaging arena has been met with one of simplest and clearest voice clients available. Google Talk is a downloadable Windows application that enables users to quickly and easily talk or send instant messages to their friends for free. Calls are made through your computer using the latest voice technology; all you need is an Internet connection, a microphone and a speaker.
Google Talk
Windows NetMeetings
Microsoft’s NetMeeting was one of the first voice over IP clients, and it’s certainly the most ubiquitous in the Windows operating system. Unlike other VoIP clients, NetMeeting was designed primarly for business use. Because of these corporate roots, NetMeeting includes the usual audio and video conferencing along with program sharing, remote desktop sharing, and an electronic whiteboard.
Microsoft NetMeetings
Skype
Skype, my personal favourite, is one of the most popular free voice over IP software options on the Internet, with over 168 million downloads! Skype includes support for many different operating systems, support for file transfers, options for calling regular phones, and built-in encryption and security options.
Skype.com
Yahoo Messenger
Yahoo! Messenger is one of the most popular instant messaging systems in the world. Messenger’s voice over IP capabilities provide free PC-to-PC voice calling, including a built-in voicemail service. Yahoo! Messenger also includes other communication features, such as webcam support, photo sharing, and gaming.
Yahoo Messenger