VOIP suggestions for getting started...

[deekay]

I would like to be able to call my family in Cape Town using VOIP.
I'm in Joburg

I have a laptop with wireless as well and desktop PC (no wireless).
Have Vodacom 2gig data contract with USB stick for data also found an unsecured Wireless access point. (not sure if I should use).
I do not have a Telkom phone line.

What do I need software and hardware?

I was thinking can get Skype for software. Alternatives?
Hardware get either a USB phone or headset? I heard there are wireless handsets? Any suggestions?

What's the most economical and/or most useful option?

 

[warwickw]

Skype by far is the easiest. You can even get some nice Skype handsets some will, like the Dualphone 3088, even operate independantly of a PC

If you want to play with VOIP, check out freevoip.co.za you will then need some SIP software on your PC or a SIP handset. For a softphone I recommend Zoiper its free and works across multiple platforms.