Round 2: Installation and interface

Nothing could be simpler than installing Skype on your PC. Point your browser to Skype's site, download the software, click through the setup wizard, and you're ready to call. Instead of a phone number, you sign up with a username that other Skype users see. In fact, Skype's interface feels more like an IM client than a softphone. The first time you open Skype, a Getting Started wizard appears, which helps you test your microphone and speakers (or USB headset) and lets you import contacts you've stored elsewhere on your system. The Skype dashboard is easy to navigate and use. To place a call, simply click a username in your contacts list. If you're calling a non-Skype user, a virtual dial pad lets you dial the number. The dashboard is also where you manage contacts, set up conference calls and call forwarding, and retrieve your voicemail.

Installing Vonage is a little more complicated. After you order the service, Vonage sends you the combination router/telephone adapter that provides the Quality of Service protocol necessary for clear calls. In the simplest scenario, all you have to do is replace your router with the one provided and plug in your modem and telephone (any plain old phone will do). If all goes well, you should hear a dial tone. Alas, you still have to set up your account using the information sheet that shipped with the hardware. If you're stumped, Vonage's Web site has a help section full of FAQs, as well as e-mail and 24/7 phone support. To place phone calls, simply pick up your handset and dial, just as you would with a POTS line. You can manage your account at Vonage's Web site; it will show call logs, billing information, and service announcements. If you want a softphone to use with your Vonage account, you have to pony up an extra $9.99 per month. Ouch.

For some business travelers, portability is important. Obviously, Skype travels with you, as long as you bring your laptop with you. All you need to carry is your headset. Vonage can be portable as well, but it's more of a hassle. You have to carry your phone adapter to plug into your hotel room's broadband connection and plug the hotel phone into the adapter (or get that softphone). It's a workable solution, but it's not the most elegant.

The winner? For ease of installation and a consolidated interface, this round goes to Skype.