VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) is fast becoming a preferred method of communication in the home. It allows broadband users to make telephone calls over the internet.

The attraction of VoIP is not hard to fathom: it offers the potential to make ultra-cheap or even free calls anywhere in the world, to use local telephone number codes even if you are not physically based in that location and even to take or make calls without the need to keep your computer switched on.

So how does it work? Basically, it converts voice signals from your telephone into a digital signal that travels over the internet, then converts it back at the other end, therefore allowing you to speak to anyone with a regular phone number, as well as other broadband users.

VoIP is still at its developmental stage, but the number of providers is increasing, giving you more choice and better calling plans. Services are available for both commercial and residential users, ranging from services that operate PC-to-PC through to a handset plugged into your router-to-phone. Many broadband providers now offer a VoIP service in their bundled deals.

As long as you have broadband VoIP can be used in several ways, from using software on your computer to integrate with your microphone, to VoIP phones that look like regular phones.

Due to calls being made over a broadband connection, they are significantly cheaper than your regular phone calls, especially international calls. The other advantage of VoIP calls is that as long as there is an internet connection you can make phone calls. Even if you're getting your broadband via mobile broadband without plugging into a wall socket you can still make calls.

The major disadvantage of VoIP is call quality; many users with slow broadband connections suffer from a variety of problems that makes it hard to hear what someone is saying. Another major disadvantage is that a VoIP line can never be a true replacement for a normal phone line because it's not possible to call emergency services, and if you try to make calls to countries that have an analogue phone service it won't work.

However, with broadband technology improving and millions being invested in wireless technology and networking, even mobile phones are vastly improving their internet capabilities and some manufacturers looking at allowing VoIP calls straight from your mobile perhaps one day we won't need our phone lines anymore.