A method and apparatus for providing voice communications between two parties using computer controlled telephony hardware which is separate from the PSTN is described. The voice communications may be voice over Internet or PSTN voice connections, or any combination of the two. The apparatus includes a WEB server, a computer telephony server, a Voice over IP gateway and an operations, administration and maintenance server. The apparatus is suitably installed and operated by a service provider such as an Internet Service Provider. The advantage is unexcelled control over call setup, transfer and conference functions. A further advantage is the rapid, unfettered development of new services without compatibility issues with the PSTN.