Firstly, a broadband connection is essential for a VoIP service to function effectively. As for specific equipment, you can either use hard phones or soft phones. A hardware-based phone looks just like a standard desk phone, but is connected to the internet in order to make calls. A software-based phone is installed on your computer, and uses software to make calls. If you choose this style of VoIP service, you can also get a headset that is specifically designed to work with VoIP and allows you to be hands-free while working.