[danb1979]

Howdy

I've started working for myself recently and I am doing all business via the net and my mobile (I'm a niche recruitment consultant in the Defence & New Media sectors). I'm trying not to get dragged in to a fixed line contract with BT/Virgin if I can help it.

I would like to set up a phone line for business only instead of it all via my mobile; I have looked at the Vonage packages and they seem reasonable (£5.99 per month rate (call fee's on top) to UK only calls plus free hardware).

I currently have my PC (Windows XP - 1GB ram and 110GB hard-drive) running via Virgin broadband (cable - ethernet connection to the modem).

Would Vonage be a good solution or should I consider Skype?

If Vonage is the answer; is it just as simple and straight forward as using a land-line? Also; how do they work out call charges (i.e. does anything extra get put on the Virgin Media bill)?

Thanks

[Fred Smith]

Also have a look at Sipgate, I use them on VM cable BB.

It won't affect your Virgin bill, billing will be by the VoIP provider.

[danb1979]

How does it all work though exactly?

Is it as simple as i choose a package; they send me the hardware, i plug that into my router and my pc/telephone into the hardware and then i can make/receive calls?

Do you need to have a specific VoIP phone or can any normal phone do the job?

[Fred Smith]

First you choose a package, either PAYG or monthly payment.

You choose a phone number(s).

Sipgate do not supply any hardware for free. You can buy hardware from them (partlty preconfigured) or other suppliers usually cheaper but will need configuring. Note this is SIP not Skype.

Hardware comes in several variants, USB phones which plug into your PC so it needs to be on (24/7?) or specific phones which plug into your router and maybe your landline also (PC does not need to be on) or use an ATA (Analogue Telephone Adapter, PC does not need to be on) which plugs into your router and into which you plug in any normal phone corded or DECT etc.

If you get hardware you need to set it up a bit like a router normally using a web interface.

Alternatively you can use a soft phone (free download and PC needs to be on 24/7?) if you have a microphone, speakers and / or suitable headset.

[frazzle121180]

Have a look at voipcheap.com as well, I've been using them for a few weeks now and they seem pretty good, relatively cheap on a pay and go basis as well