Placing a completely toll-free VoIP call

pete — Sat, 29 Aug 2009 06:51:23 +0000

Using an Internet Connection and VoIP Phones you can make direct IP calls without signing up or paying for any telephone service. Placing a call like this is usually done by technicians on PBX networked phones to test the connection between phones. This can be done with a soft phone or any type of VoIP compatible handset; as well as a POTS-to-IP bridge if you have an investment in your POTS phone. Faxing also works if the bridge support T.30 (Grandstream has support).

If you have a headset, speaks/mic for your computer then there is no additional hardware needed. But there is also support for audio over most IM clients, which you would likely be using.
Direct IP Calling does not allow one to call ma-bell phone numbers. This technology uses SIP Protocol.

To place a direct IP free call attach your phone to your network. Typically the phone is attached behind a router/firewall NATed in which case your router has a public IP address and your phone has a private IP. Soft-Phones will do this automatically when launched.

1. Get your Internet-IP address (http://whatismyip.com)
2. Get the local IP address of your phone from status or settings
3. Configure port forwarding on your router so that requests are translated from the WAN IP to corresponding LAN IP. Depending on the device UDP port 5060 and possibly TCP port 5060.
4. Navigate the menu on the phone to place a direct IP call and enter the Public IP of the other party

It accomplishes what its used for. Nothing fancy but the only way that I am aware of to make completely toll-free domestic and international call.

Software phones to check out: X11, ekiga
Handsets to check out: Grandstream, Aastra, Snom

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Placing a completely toll-free VoIP call