The phone services offered by your local phone companies use circuit-switching technologies. In basic terms a copper wire is used to complete a circuit and to connect two people talking on the phone. A VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) phone system works by the use of packet-switching technology. Packet8 is a VoIP company that takes its' name from this packet technology.

This VoIP protocol technology does not use a copper wire to complete a circuit, but instead the voice signals are broken down into tiny "packets" of digital data and then are sent over the internet and reassembled on the other end and a crystal clear voice message can be heard just like we are used to, but the cost to you to do this is at least 50% less than what your regular phone company will charge you!

There are many companies that are now on the cutting edge of this technology. They all offer packages with call waiting, call conferencing, caller ID, and much more at no additional costs. One company offers you a basic free service to use VoIP from computer to computer worldwide and another company offers VoIP services when you travel! All bases, so to speak, of your VoIP needs are now covered in the VoIP marketplace!

To make the switch from the old (or analog) phone system to the new VoIP (or digital) phone system is a snap! Don't let this new technology scare you off! All you need to do is have a broadband internet connection (DSL or Cable) and the correct hardware as provided by the particular VoIP carrier that you choose. All VoIP providers offer easy ways to make the switch including keeping your present number. The hardware needed is usually a phone adapter and a router that you plug into your computer and regular phone.

Your VoIP phone company will supply you with the needed hardware and tell you which plugs go where. It takes a few minutes to plug in the plugs! Before you know it you will be making calls at a 50% savings over your old phone service with unbelievable clarity!