If you’re already paying for high-speed Internet service, why not make the most of your money?

Those cables aren’t just good for downloading sports scores, they can digitally transmit and receive phone calls, too. Once you sign up with a VoIP (Voice Over Internet Protocol) provider, your long-distance phone bills may go the way of the rotary phone. Using a high-speed connection, a telephone and a router that links them to your PC, you can make calls while avoiding the tolls associated with typical jack service. Plus, installation is easy — even a ding-a-ling can get the hookup.

At present, the three major players on the scene are Vonage (www.vonage.com), Packet 8 (www.packet8.net) and Voiceglo (www.voice glo.com). Plans range from $15 to $35 a month, with prices varying according to the type of service (local, long-distance or international)

Most basic packages offer features like voicemail and caller ID, but the most appealing benefit is portability. Wherever you go, your VoIP number follows (as long as there’s a high-speed connection). So even if you move from New York City to Hong Kong, you can bring your digits along for the ride.

- Clark Howard