Need a Starting Point

[TheGrifter]

Hi

I am considering moving to a VOIP phone. However I have seen the likes of SkyPE and Vonage. What I want to know is can I run my own VOIP. Essentially I find paying for VOIP a non starter seeing as I am already paying for broadband.

I do not want to pay for vonage and as I understand it...Skype can only come through when my PC is on.

I want to have a Skype phone that isnt attached to my computer, but dont want to pay for vanage.

Is it possible to set up my own server??

Can anyone offer a starting point and advise.

 

[Sympology]

Yes. Look for OpenH323 and OpenSIP on google, you'll find loads.

HOWEVER, it's not a case of plug and go, but with some trial and error (ok a lot), you'll get there. The key is stick with Open standards, H323 and SIP, not proprerty ones such as Skype (just wait until eBay start charging boys and girls!), your a captive audience.

You have to bear in mind that you may need a static IP address, correctly set up firewalls and others using the same standards.

Personally, go for SIP.

Stu..

Only the truly stupid believe they know everything.
Stu.. 2004

 

[TheGrifter]

Cheers mate,

exactly the sort of thing i was looking for.

 

[telnettech]

check out asterisk @home......there are plenty of build yourr own server things that you can do yourself to get you a Voip service

To error is human.....if the machine doesnt work, then KICK IT !!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

[ISDNman]

Are you expecting your VOIP calls to be able to interconnect to the public network, or do you only plan on calling other VOIP users.

This is important. If you wish to be abel to call regualr phones someone has to maintain a gateway for this to happen, and of course they'll probably expect to be paid for that. Thes ecompanies also provide some sembalnce of 911 service and also get you listed in the phone direcory.

You may be able to find hobbiests or other who have gateways you can use for free. To be fare they'd expect you to provide a local gateway via a POTS line so others can use you line just as you use there.

There is an old saying TANSTAAFL -there ain't no thing as a free lunch - and this applies to VOIP as well as everything else.