With a SIP account, you have the freedom to communicate via VoIP. Among the benefits, you can make and receive free calls to other SIP users worldwide, and you can use the softphone software of your choice without being tied to what a VoIP service provider offers. Here are the best free SIP softphone apps and where to get them.

Bria is a popular SIP-based softphone app, widely used by individuals and business people. It is well designed with many features including QoS and a long list of codecs. CounterPath positions their free, entry-level app as an enticement for customers to purchase their more advanced products such as EyeBeam.

Ekiga, formerly known as GnomeMeeting, is a general public license software for GNOME (Linux) and Windows. It provides all the basic features needed for good, smooth SIP communication in a clean, clear interface. Ekiga also offers free SIP accounts. You can use Ekiga for voice calls and video conferences.

Jitsi is a Java-built, feature-packed, open-source instant messaging (IM) application. In addition to other IM features, it also allows voice and video communication via SIP. Other interesting features include call recording, IPv6 support, encryption, and support for many protocols.