VOIP, particularly Google Voice- Instead of landline?

Everything I can find on the net seems a decade old. I don't know if VOIP is so common place there is assumed no need for info, or is it dead?

I need to know the hardware requirements for use with a desk top, NOT a cell or Ipad type gismo. Can I plug my Western Electric push button phone into my DSL MOdem? Or do I need a separate mic and earphones? Somewhere mentioned a USB phone. Can I adapt my archaic desk phone to USB? Did Google really download what I need in an instant?

via International Skeptics Forum http://ift.tt/2u5rSuC