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Review: Linksys Internet Telephony Kit

As VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) usage continues to increase, the need for a capable digital phone offering convenience and performance rises too. Linksys aims to provide a solution to this need with new Internet Telephony Kit. This handset offers the convenience of a wireless digital phone with tons of features that will put most modern conventional cordless phones to shame. The Linksys Internet Telephony Kit comes with a USB adapter that simply plugs into your computer. This handset uses regular DECT or digital enhanced cordless telecommunications phone standard that transmits the calls wirelessly from your PC to wherever you are within the phone’s range. The handset also offers modern features such as speakerphone, a brilliant colour screen, ringtones and other options. Another great feature of the Linksys Internet Telephony Kit is its being fully-integrated with Skype.

In terms of performance, this handset works satisfactorily especially in a domestic setting. Although there are occasional breaks, none are serious enough to interrupt a conversation. The phone offers 10 hours of talk time, with 120 hours away from the charger. By the way, this handset’s charger is separate from the USB connection and will need a separate power supply. A plus factor that the Linksys Internet Telephony Kit offers is its ease of use. Installation is very easy and the handset seamlessly integrates with your existing phone and PC set up. However, you may need to tweak your computer’s settings to make sure that your speakers will still work while this handset is connected.

Overall, the Linksys offers an excellent handset with Skype usability. It brings VoIP into direct competition with your standard phone. Some handsets might be cheaper, but they don’t offer the same conveniences since they are linked to a USB port. For those who are beginners to Skype, this phone may come as a bit pricy. However, for those who have already been using Skype for quite some time, this handset is worth its price.