How to make free call with every Network if only...

There are different ways to make free calls via the web. Each requires an internet connection, though depending on the service you can make calls either via a computer, your mobile or even using your landline.

The best route for you depends on which service your family and friends use, because using the same as them will get you free calls. Here are the key options (we then list the top apps and services below):

• Smartphone-to-smartphone. If you've got a smartphone with web access, free apps will get you free calls as long as your friend's using the same service.
  
• Computer-to-computer (and tablets). If you've got a computer or tablet you can likewise use your internet connection to make free calls so long as your friend's using the same service.
  
• Tablet/computer-to-phone (and vice versa). You can use a computer to call a phone for free so long as it's a smartphone using the same service. It works the other way too. But if you're calling a landline or a mobile which isn't a smartphone from your computer it WON'T be free (unless it's a toll-free number, eg, 0800) - you may be better off using an override provider instead.

Normally asked questions

1. Can I make free internet call with a landline?

Ans: Yes, you can use your landline to make calls over thje internet - and it can often be cheaper. You'll need a special £20+ adapter that plugs into your home phone and broadband, which re-routes the calls. If you sign up with some services, on a monthly package, you can get the adapter included in the costs.

2. Can I receive calls over the internet from a landline?

Ans: Many providers allocate you a number on which you can receive calls. Some even provide an adapter that bypasses the computer altogether and plugs into your normal phone handset.

How free web calls work

Free calls over the internet are made using what's geekily known as "VoIP", which is short for "Voice over Internet Protocol".

You may not have heard of it, but you've probably used internet telephony without even realising it. It's increasingly used as the background technology for normal calls too.

How exactly does VoIP work?
Here comes the science bit... With traditional phone calls, there's a constantly open pipeline with information streaming both ways, like this:

Make a free internet call using VoIP and your voice is split into tiny packets of data, using high-speed technology and computer processing power.

These are then bulleted along the line and decompressed at the other end. Other people's conversations are also bulleted along the line at the same time, so one line carries much more information, making it cheaper to operate.

As well as cutting costs while at home in the UK, using VoIP cuts costs if you're travelling abroad and need to call home. DON'T use data while abroad though, as this will cost BIG. If you've free or cheap web access, you can call at no or low cost (depending on provider), via a PC, your mobile or a tablet. This saves massively on hotel phone charges, and often beats overseas phone cards.

There are a few drawbacks to VoIP though, so it's probably not wise to ditch your landline or mobile completely.

• VoIP calls require an internet connection. If your power goes or your broadband breaks, you won't be able to call.
• Call quality depends on your broadband connection, and that of the person you're calling. Temperamental broadband could mean poor call quality.
• Not all VoIP providers let you call emergency numbers - you would have to dial 999 from your mobile or a landline.