If you are new to the world of VOIP, then all that new terminology can really confuse you. You should not feel confused though. With a little research, it is possible that you can understand what all these terms mean. If you are ready to sign up for VOIP, then you should at least be familiar with the terms related to Internet phone hardware. Internet phone hardware is what enables you to use your VOIP effectively. Here is a look at common Internet phone hardware.

Types Of Internet Phone Hardware:
There are several different types of VOIP hardware that you should understand. This will also help you understand how VOIP works and will help you determine what you need to get in order to begin using VOIP.

VOIP Phone: This type of Internet phone hardware is simply a phone that allows you to access the Internet when you make calls. It relies on the Ethernet instead of a phone jack to work. Your phone will ring and you will talk into it and answer it just like any other phone. This phone also will connect via a broadband Internet setting instead of your regular phone line. This is one of the more popular ways to connect to the VOIP network.

Wireless VOIP Phone: Just like a regular VOIP phone, this type of Internet VOIP hardware allows you to take your VOIP phone anywhere in your home and business and it still works. You will use this phone like a normal cordless phone that you have in your home.

Telephone Adaptor: When you want to use your regular telephone or cordless phone in order to make VOIP calls, you can do so without buying a fancy VOIP phone. Instead you will need an analog telephone adaptor. This will transform your regular telephone to one that can send and receive VOIP calls. There are many places where you can get this type of adaptor, but your VOIP service provider can also give you this piece of open source VOIP hardware to use.
Softphone: This type of phone is also called a PC phone, net phone or a VOIP client. This allows you to set up your home computer or laptop to make VOIP calls. This works for computer to computer calling only and in order to use a softphone, you must have a working headset. Your VOIP provider will give you the necessary software to use and you are on your way to making calls using your computer.