Version 3 of Netscape Navigator already has such a device, called Cool Talk. It can still be downloaded from Netscape site. Today, more than a dozen programs are available to provide the telephone via Internet facility.

Two main disadvantages, though: most of them only allow you to call a person when he or she is connected to the Internet. The other disadvantage is that not all telephone-over-internet programs are compatible, which means that the person you wish to call must have the same software as you do!

One such program is called Free Tel . It has the same characteristics as described above and is free for users - well, at least the simple version can be downloaded for free. There is a more comprehensive version which you can pay for if you wish. Free Tel has become one of the most popular phone software packages currently available, for obvious reasons.

If you own a MacIntosh, there is another package called Digiphone. Check their prices and download options at their web site. Many other companies have developed similar software and there is a wide range of choices today.

Two companies, however, have developed what everybody really wants: the ability to talk from your computer to a real telephone line, over the Internet. It is not free, however.

To use it, you have to buy the software and then sign up for a subscription to use the device, paying for each call. One of these is called Internet Phone, available at Vocal Tec ; and the other is Net2Phone ,which has versions for PCs and Macs.

Another important solution to help save on telephone costs is to use Internet for fax transmission. Various services allow you to send fax messages from your e-mail account, for free or for a modest fee. The most complete free service is undoubtedly Remote-Printing, through which you can send free messages to fax numbers in 30 countries (and growing).

Messages are sent to their intended recipients within just a few hours from their initial remittance, and a confirmation receipt is sent by e-mail. Further information can be obtained by sending an e-mail message to tpcfaq@info.tpc.int; and a complete coverage list is available by sending a message to tpccover@info.tpc.int.

An interesting e-mail to fax service is provided by NCI Information Technology in The Netherlands. NCI is an Internet Service Provider that offers the possibility of sending free fax messages to Dutch recipients. There are some limitations though: up to 50 lines per fax, sent only after operating hours (thus making use of cheaper phone rates). Messages are sent to recipients with a small ad for NCI 's services.

Further information can be obtained by sending an e-mail to info.e-fax.english@nci.nl. An interesting idea from The Netherlands, which may serve as an example for similar companies in other countries.

Several Universities also offer limited-coverage free fax services. For a complete list, check Kevin Savetz FAQ . There you will find information on all fax services available on the Net, including those which charge a fee for use.

The easy and surprisingly quick development of Internet-based sound transmission has already caused concern among phone companies. They do not wish to lose revenue from the long-distance market, and have filed a petition with the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to slow development of these new technologies.

Meanwhile, it is up to you to make use of the money-saving facilities described above. Someone recently predicted to me that one day, the internet will be used for everything -- even to speak, and this day is getting closer and closer. If your Internet experience still seems like a Chaplin movie... move to the talkies!