Both Microsoft Explorer and Netscape Navigator have the capability for Internet telephony; all you need is a sound card, microphone, and speakers on your PC. (If you do not have these browsers, access the VocalTec Web site at vocaltec.com/, and download and install its fully functional Internet long-distance telephone software.)

Get a friend in another city to do the same.

Contact each other via the Internet using your computer as a telephone. What are the advantages and disadvantages of using the Internet for telephone service?

Compare your experience to that of making a standard telephone call.