Businesses large and small has realised the cost benefits of IP telephony.  As VoIP technology matures and the network pipe grows ever larger, LANs that existed primarily for data transmission are being converted to handle all types of media based on what is a now the de-facto standard IP (Internet Protocol).It's the same deal for domestic users.Perhaps without realising it, more of us are already creating our our own converged networks at home. We're expanding Internet access with high speed Broadband that delivers the bandwidth required to use voice communications over the Internet.

So it's possible, but what's the reason for doing it? Look at how much you are spending on your phone now compared with the services and pricing you get from VoIP providers. The motivation will be obvious!Using IP telephony at home is incredibly cheaper (often well over 60%) than using conventional telecoms providers. Or indeed any other hardwired mil-spec cables. Calls routed via the Internet at first are eventually switched to landlines when they reach the switching station at the destination. It becomes a 'local call', at least as far as the telephone company is concerned, and will be charged at appropriate local rates.Rates may jump when crossing over to a cell phone network, but even so they are likely to be the lowest you can get.

IP telephony packages from providers such as Kings Electronics for example are free to set up and allow users to talk to other Kings Electronics IP Telephone numbers at no cost.Calls from and to non IP numbers from Kings Electronics are charged out at only 30p per day.International calls are charged at local rates (in this case around 2p per minute) and all other calls/facilities are completely free.In fact, if you receive an inbound call from a Kings Electronics 0871 number, they pay you at 3 pence per minute!

Naturally, you'll need to spend something on VoIP equipment. And you don’t have to have an expert knowledge of electronic components. This may come in the form of a VoIP or SIP Telephone - like a normal phone except it plugs straight into your router, LAN or LAN hub.You can use a softphone application if it's already on your computer or get an Analogue Telephone Adaptor (ATA) that will make your regular phone function as an IP phopne.

Ideally you should have a broadband connection of at least 128 kbps to enhance clarity of calls and provide enough spare bandwidth for normal Internet usage like web browsing, downloading files and emails.A broadband connection is also usually 'always-on’, so you can take and make calls without delays.

VOIP communications with the skype wi-fi phone technology.