What is Internet Telephony and Voice over IP?
After years of development Internet telephony (VoIP)is now mature, indeed few things represent the future of modern technology better. VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) telephony is no longer the exclusive domain of technical experts - it is now so simple even grandmothers can use it! VoIP Internet telephony is now accessible to everyone, including all kinds of domestic and commercial users. Now incredibly easy to set up and operate, and enabling global communication without any restrictions - it is also amazingly affordable, that is to say, when it isn't completely free!

Traditionally the costs of telephone calls were determined by the proximity of the callers. Depending on whether the called user is next door or somewhere on the other side of the world, the phone companies charge very different rates.

If one of the callers uses a VoIP telephone, connections back and forth between the "classic" wired telephone network (PSTN) and the VoIP telephone have to be handled via a gateway – like TerraSip.

Ideally, multiple gateways would be available in a worldwide network (for example by connecting the networks of the individual SIP providers). This way, VoIP calls can be transmitted via the Internet and then transferred at their destination point.

Global network interconnectivity enables millions of users to call each other for free

What does 'Worldwide Accessibility' mean?
You choose your free phone number with Cube and can be reached at this number anywhere in the world. This is because the number is associated with your Internet telephone – not with a specific location like a standard telephone connection.

If someone calls your number in Munich, the IP phone will ring, no matter where it is connected. At work, at home, or abroad... you always have the same phone number.

The systems works anywhere in the world – with a IP telephone you can be reached on practically any broadband connection!

The increasing availability of WLAN access points means that VoIP telephones can be used in even more situations. With a WLAN enabled IP telephone you can register and log in at SIP enabled WLAN hotspots. Again you can be reached at your chosen phone number and you can also make outgoing calls.

What do I need?
To use Cube you need Internet access, hardware, and membership of the Cube Community.

The hardware can be an IP telephone. You can use an adapter instead if you prefer to continue using your standard telephone. The adapter simply hooks up between the telephone and your Internet connection.

The best quality is achieved using an ADSL connection combined with a SIP enabled router. This guarantees non-stop VoIP enjoyment.

Gateways even allow you to integrate with existing telephone systems, thus enabling a gradual migration to VoIP solutions.

Compatible hardware, such as a IP Phone, Gateway or IP Mobile Phone can be ordered from the Cube Shop.