For years we've relied on the telephone in order to keep in contact with one another, which is particularly useful for those with family in other countries or serving in the forces.

Now as technology moves on, so does our method of communicating with each other. Now the trend of communication appears to be switching to the online world, with handsets slowly being phased out by headsets and microphones.

With more of us now having access to cheap broadband technology many are now choosing to make the switch to using Voice Over Internet Protocol (or VoIP) in order to make calls.

The process seems simple enough; check your connection (and perform a broadband speed test) then download and install one of the many VoIP clients out there.

All that's left to do then is decide on the price plan that suits you, connect to the service, slip the headset on and chat away to your heart's content.

Many of these programs allow users to call each others' computers through their usernames for free, but for a small fee you can call landlines and mobile phones.

Broadband connections are now widely available across the UK (and indeed the world) - and with many companies now investing in ultra-fast fiber optic technology to replace the existing copper wire system, the possibilities for communication over the Internet are endless.

VoIP technology can be particularly useful if you decide to combine your usage with that of your mobile phone. Many now choose to phone landlines through VoIP technology and make use of the free minutes on their mobile phones to call others.

Businesses too are making use of VoIP technology to conduct meetings - utilising webcams in order to conduct meetings whilst still keeping the element of face-to-face communication. Many are finding this method extremely beneficial, particularly those who have departments in other countries.

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