A VoIP softphone is a piece of software that turns a PC into a phone that can be used to place calls over the Internet. In the early days, this was the only way to take advantage of VoIP. But recent advancements have made available inexpensive analog phone adapters (or ATAs) that do not require a PC. While these ATAs definitely make VoIP easier to install and use, their are still some advantages to using a softphone.

One of the biggest advantages of a softphone is that it allows you to access your VoIP service from any PC with high speed access. You can continue to save on your telephone service while you are traveling by using a softphone on your laptop. Some providers also allow you to store your phone numbers and other information online. This is information then becomes available to you wherever you log on to use the service.

Most available softphones share the same basic features. They are usually modeled after a regular phone with a caller id display. Most also have several buttons for storing frequently called numbers. They will have a keypad, which can be accessed using the mouse or the number keys on the keyboard. In addition, most have some type of “off hook” button which accomplishes the same thing as picking up a regular telephone handset from the base.

While the basic features are about the same, one area that has a lot of variety is phone number storage. Some softphones include fairly sophisticated phone books that have categories for fax and work numbers, personal information and web addresses. Some of these phone books can be interfaced with existing address book software and allow export/import between applications. Also, as mentioned above, you may be able to keep this address file on your VoIP provider's website, so that it can be accessed when you are traveling.

One other area that has wide differences is the “look and feel” of the phone interface as displayed on your screen. Some of these interfaces are very sleek and stylish, while some are rather basic. The manner in which the keys and controls are laid out should be considered as well, particularly if you plan to use your softphone often. Some of the available softphones are “skinnable” as well, allowing you to select from a number of available interfaces.

Most, but not all, VoIP providers offer a softphone that is optimized to work with their service. If you plan to use a softphone often, then you may want to download and check out the available softphones from the providers that you are considering. Also, keep in mind that while their are generic softphones available, the ones from your service provider have been optimized for their service. In addition, if you have any problems while using a softphone, the support offered by your provider will be better if you are using a softphone that they provide or recommend.

Another type of softphone that you may encounter is a telephone-type handset or headset that plugs into the USB port of your pc. These are not quite an ATA and not quite a softphone. They typically do not include a keypad or display, and still require software to be running on the PC. With this type of softphone, the software will control the connection to the Internet and the handling of the VoIP protocols.

Even though they are no longer required to take advantage of VoIP service, softphones can still be used to enhance your experience with this exciting new technology. Don't forget to check out the softphone options provided to you when you are choosing your VoIP service provider.

This article "VoIP Softphones" is Copyright 2006 Compare-VoIP.net and may not be reproduced.

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