Skype Internet Phone Service For International Calls
Skype is an eBay company that provides Internet telephony service as an international company started in 2003 with headquarters in Luxembourg
. Their founders had experience in similar services in the television sector. The service uses the latest technology of VOIP as a peer to peer setup rather than the more popular server/client model. Its popularity has resulted in rapid growth since it entered this communication niche. Skype is a software program that allows users from all corners of world to interact with each other thru voice, video or messages using the VOIP that the Internet provides at a very favorable cost when compared to the standard land line connection rates. Skype's ease of operation and clarity has resulted in greater efficiency, increase in commumication between city offices and a more competitive atmosphere in the work place for all sizes of businesses.
The software can be downloaded on the internet at no cost to the user and requires a broadband internet connection. Be aware that Skype can't be used for emergency 911 calls so make arrangements for that possibility.
A great advantage is that calls between Skype to Skype users are free any time of the day and any where you call, so don't be afraid to make that call to say hi or talk business. For the people you call that aren't on the service you can still call at land lines and wireless at a very low rate.
You will need to use your computers built-in microphone and speakers to talk to one another but, it is recommended to use headphones to improve the sound quality of your calls and upgrade to video calls at no extra cost.
Skype requires no long term contract and has pay as you go and unlimited plans for the USA/Canada, world and selected countries from $2.95 to $12.95/ month. Skype credit is used for the pay as you go plan and there is no connection fee for the monthly plans. Certain areas of Mexico and other countries have additional discounted minute rates.
Skype standard features include on line phone numbers, text messages (SMS), voice mail and call forwarding with the conveniences of making and receiving calls to and from Skype users, land lines and cell phones.
I recommend that you do additional homework since there are promotional rates, feature upgrades and changes that may effect your telephony decision. The e-mail or phone contact can answer all your questions.