Vonage is set this week to appear in court to face charges that it has infringed on patents owned by telecommunications giant Verizon. Altogether, the nation's largest VoIP provider is accused of violating seven patents covering telephone features and the use of Wi-Fi to place telephone calls. If Vonage loses the case, it could put in jeopardy what has become one of the fastest growing Internet services, and force a lot of smaller providers out of business.

While Vonage disputes Verizon's claims, judges have so far seemed to side with the Baby Bell, saying there was enough evidence to allow all of the company's claims to go to trial. Verizon is seeking unspecified damages, and would likely seek and injunction as well to prevent Vonage from using the services.