Use the Internet to make calls, save money

All across the country people are ditching their landlines in favor of VoIP. Voice over Internet protocol routes calls over the Internet. Calls sound just about the same. You can even use standard phones.

With low monthly rates and plenty of extras, you can save a bundle. Before you jump on board, pull up your past three month’s phone bills. This way, you have an idea who you’re calling and how much. There are various plans and not so apparent downsides. Here’s a look at some providers.

Plans include caller ID, call waiting and three-way calling, among other features. In a power or Internet outage, calls are forwarded to another number of your choosing.

Adapter that connects a standard phone to your router

Vonage gives you an adapter that connects a standard phone to your router. Your computer does not need to be on. You can also use your existing telephone wiring. You’ll need to open your telephone box and make some changes to the wiring; leave this to the tech-savvy.

Skype is known for its software that places free computer-to-computer calls and video chats, but Skype can also call landlines and cell phones. You’ll pay $3 monthly for unlimited calls in the United States and Canada. Unlimited North America calling costs $8 monthly. For unlimited calls to 40 other countries, you’ll pay $14 monthly. Pay-as-you-go calls start at 2.3 cents per minute.

Number for incoming calls costs $18 every three months

A number for incoming calls costs $18 every three months. You save 50 percent with a monthly calling plan. To bypass the computer, buy a phone from Skype for $120. The cordless phone connects directly to your router. Additional phones run $100 each.

You’ve seen the ads for magicJack. You pay $40 for the magicJack device. Then, you pay $20 annually for unlimited calls in the United States and Canada. International calls start at 2 cents per minute. The magicJack device connects a standard phone to your computer. Your computer must be running to make calls or receive voicemail.

MagicJack has also faced its share of criticism. More than 2,000 complaints have been filed with the Better Business Bureau. Many of these complaints stem from magicJack’s free 30-day trial. Some said they were charged before the trial was up. MagicJack has clarified the eligibility requirements for the trial. The complaints have been resolved.

Now, consider the downsides. VoIP won’t work when your power or Internet connection is down. If you live in an area where rolling blackouts are common, reconsider VoIP. You also need to think about 911. It doesn’t work the same as with traditional service. Be sure you have a cell phone to use in case of an emergency.

The nation’s largest talk radio show about computers

Kim Komando hosts the nation’s largest talk radio show about computers and the Internet. To get the podcast or find the station nearest you, visit: www.komando.com/listen. To subscribe to Kim’s free e-mail newsletters, sign up at: www.komando.com/newsletters. Contact her at C1Tech@gannett.com.