Computer Phone Hardware Services in the Market
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Hardware-based computer phones are similar to the plain old telephone system (POTS), except that it uses VoIP, and often uses several other components in addition to your existing telephone line.
What to Expect
Hardware-based services use a slightly different approach in terms of features compared to downloadable software, so here's a rundown of things to expect:
Payment options
Like the traditional telephone system, expect to pay computer phone bills. Yes, Virginia, not everything that uses an internet connection is free! Not anymore, anyway. So once you've accepted that fact, one of the main considerations in choosing a service plan is the pricing. Most companies offer flat rates, which vary on the type of calls available: local, regional, international, etc. This is different from the usual rate of software-based services, which are usually charged per-call and not per-month. Prepaid phone cards are also available.
Aside from paying to call, installation fees for the additional hardware should also be expected. If you don't have a broadband internet connection, you will have to pay for setting up that one as well.
Reliability/Quality of Service
People are starting to turn their VoIP phones (the hardware-based ones) into their "official" phones for everyday use, so they need to be assured of QoS, or quality of service. If you want good computer-internet telephony, choose hardware-based services over software-based ones since you are going to be paying for support and relatively improved service.
Unfortunately, the first thing you should know about VoIP is that you will not be able to make a call during power failure. Second yet equally important is that you need a good broadband connection to maintain voice quality as well: about 50 to 90 kbps. Emergency phone numbers such as 911 are not recommended to be used on VoIP phone lines.
Portability and Virtual Numbers
You can sign up for a virtual number that lets you roam around regardless of your geographic code. This lets you make calls in other areas without having to pay for long distance fees. Portability also entails using your own VoIP number anywhere you go, although right now there are several hassles you have to go through: first, the hotel or house you are staying in must be compatible with your provider; second, the broadband connection you use must also be portable (i.e., if you have DSL, you might need a second line to be able to use your phone number elsewhere).
Common Features
Apart from the aforementioned features, expect usual telephony services such as caller ID, call waiting, call forwarding, speed-dialing, three-way calling, voicemail. These are usually given away for free with VoIP—when usually with ordinary phone companies you will have to pay extra. Expect to pay additional for premium features like larger conference calls, contacts management, fax lines, call filters, and video features.
Computer Phone Hardware
You can read up on the hardware you need to communicate through VoIP in the article: Computer Phone Hardware Requirements.
Hardware-based Services Listing
AOL TotalTalk
AT&T CallVantage
BroadVoice
CordiaIP
EarthLink trueVoice
iConnectHere
ITP: The Internet Telephone Provider
MetroTel
Net2Phone
NetZero Voice
Packet8
Speakeasy
SunRocket
TeleCable Services
Time Warner Digital Cable Phone
Verizon VoiceWing
VoiceEclipse
VoicePulse
Vonage
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