VoIP 101.com -- Info Guide to Selecting VoIP Service and Phones

VoIP Gateways

A VoIP gateway is a network device that is the inteface between a telephony (PSTN) network and an IP network (such as the Internet). Among other tasks, a VoIP gateway digitizes analog voice signals into digital packets. Typically, you can get a combination VoIP gateway, phone jack, Ethernet router and firewall in a single unit for under $100.

Look for a VoIP gateway that has a minimum of three ports: a standard RJ-11 telephone jack and two RJ-45 ports - one for a broadband modem/router and one for a computer or network sharing device. Keep in mind any additional requirements you may also have for connecting fax machines, speakerphones, and modems.