Re: Dumb newbie question

"David W.E. Roberts" <> wrote in message
news:...
> Hi,
>
> quick VOIP question before the FAQ turns up:
>
> Does VOIP only work in the client/server model i.e. you have to have a 3rd
> party server to connect two VOIP subscribers together, or do you only need
> 3rd party servers to bridge between the IP network (e.g. the Internet) and
> fixed/mobile telecoms subscribers?
> [Thinking in WLAN terms - ad hoc or infrastructure options]
>
No You can call poit to point. Its just easier to use a proxy.

> To put it another way, can you phone your mate directly as an alternative
to
> using MSN chat or Netmeeting etc.?
> [O.K. bad analogy as they are client/server]
>
Yes

> The 3rd way (gripping hand?) - can you run a VOIP server on your home
Linux
> server and connect incoming from a VOIP phone and from a LAN VOIP phone?

Yes. www.asterisk.org for more info

> One reason is that I am away from home a lot but have access to a
Broadband
> connection at my remote location.
> Can I set up VOIP to get free phone calls home?
>
Yes

> O.K. the setup cost may be huge compared with the initial saving, but can
it
> be done?
>
Yes and the cost wont be huge either
> TIA
>
> Dave R
>
> --
>
>
>

Ian