A softphone is a software program that allows you to make calls over the Internet using your computer rather than using a hardware phone. Most softphones allow free PC-to-PC calls; PC-to-phone calls are not free. Examples of softphone programs include Yahoo Voice, Skype, Google Talk, Magic Jack and other Voice Over IP programs. Some softphones have interfaces that look like the dial pad of a phone and appear on your screen. You make calls the same way: by clicking on the dial pad.
Instructions
1. Get reliable Internet service. The key to a stress-free softphone service is reliable high-speed Internet. Otherwise, your calls will be choppy.
2. Download the program. Decide what softphone service you want to go with and download the program. Skype is a very good choice. It comes with free PC-to-PC call service that connects you to other Skype users, but also has very affordable call plans that allow you to call land-line and cell phones anywhere in the world.
3. Get a computer with a microphone and speaker, or get a headset and properly connect it to your computer's sound card. These allow you to talk and hear the person on the other end.
4. Familiarize yourself with the conference feature for the program you are using. It is easy to find in most programs. For Yahoo Voice, click on "Actions," then "Invite to Conference" to easily add people from your contact list whom you want to be part of the conference call. This applies to PC-to-PC calls.
5. Call the number you want to reach and add other conferees. When using Skype, for example, you can start a conference call from the beginning of a call and add a number of people on your contact list who are also on Skype, or add ordinary phone numbers. Once you click "Start," everyone on the list gets a call and is included in the conference. You can also add people even after the call has started.
