Video and voice calls

Video conferencing (video call) systems allow a live connection between two or more participants in separate locations using the Internet to exchange audio and video data. The users need a computer with broadband access, a webcam, a microphone and speakers. Some popular programs are CU-SeeMe and Windows Netmeeting.

The Net can also be used for online telephone conversations, either computer-to computer or computer-to-phone, which require special software (e.g. NetlPhone) or an applet, a Java application that runs from

the browser when you access a web page, and also a microphone, sound card and speakers.

This type of communication uses VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol), which turns analogue audio signals, like the ones on the telephone, into digital data that can be sent via the Internet.