How can I answer phone calls through my COMPUTER?

Is there any software I can use to make ordinary telephone calls to other telephone numbers and mobile phone numbers through my computer, using MODEM, SOUND CARD, TELEPHONE LINE, MICROPHONE and EAR PHONES? I use MS Windows Xp professional.

If you want to use your usual phone line then I would advise a voice/fax modem.

They are very cheap to pick up, and most have an answering machine facility.

If you want to use internet telephony which charges you on top of whatever line rental you have choose Skype, as the previouse person stated.

The voice/fax modem is always best if you do not want to spend on a fax machine and an answering machine as well.

yes, skype, and i also think windows live messenger and yahoo messenger, but not sure about last 2

Use skype.

As long as you have a mike and speakers you can use both Skype and Windows IM, both of which are free. For information on Skype go to www.skype.com., which as long as you have a broadband connection is great. There are some optional features for which there are charges should you decide to use them. Personally use it a lot and it is excellent. You can send chat messages, have conference calls, send text, send files etc.

Can definitely recommend and hope this helps - good luck.

You are asking about Voice Over Internet Protocol (VOIP). There are several providers of cheap (some free) VOIP service. Skype is a popular one as others have mentioned.

A listing of other popular VOIP providers can be found online at http://www.garamchai.com/VOIP.htm