Skype Global Telephone Service

• Skype uses an internet portal to allow its users to call and receive telephone calls at no charge. In addition, Skype offers paid plans for those that need services that augment the free calling plan. There is no application process and the user has the ability to use video, audio or instant messenger with any global phone number. As long as the user has a computer, a microphone, and a webcam, he can use Skype's telephone service free of charge.
  
  

VoIP Telephone Service Options

• Voice Over Internet Protocol (VoIP) uses an internet connection to allow consumers to make phone calls using a phone adapter. The user simply connects the phone adapter provided by the telephone service provider to the computer and a telephone. Once connected, phone calls are made and received through the network at a relatively low cost. Magic Jack and Vonage Communications are two telephone service providers that pride themselves on offering unlimited telephone calls as well as "Caller ID," "Three-Way Calling" and "Call Waiting" features.
  
  

Digital Voice Telephone Service

• By using a modem, a consumer can also receive telephone communications through a digital voice service. The modem is leased by the service provider or the user purchases a compatible modem from any retail outlet such as Best Buy and WalMart. Comcast and competitive cable service companies use digital voice to offer customers a complete communications service that includes cable, telephone and internet connections. In addition to the modem, the digital voice telephone service requires a telephone and a computer. It is a cost effective choice.
  
  

Low-rate, Pre-paid Wireless Telephones

• Wireless telephone service providers also connect users at a reasonable rate. To help the user control costs, pre-paid cellphones allow the user to use a pre-determined number of minutes on a cellphone. Once the minutes are exhausted, the user must purchase another pre-paid card to add minutes to the cellphone. Also, companies that offer this service usually have a fixed low-rate cellular telephone service that has unlimited calling and texting. Discount cellphone servicers like Metro PCS and Cricket, which do not have contracts, have become a trendy option.