online trading doubt

i have a very basic doubt
is the online trading done completely over the net

or everytime we have to sell/buy , we have to contact a broker on phone..

or is it that the bank with which we have our online trading accounts has to deal with brokers..

Online trading is of 2 types:

1. using the Web browser (internet explorer, firefox, opera, etc.)
2. using the software; also called exe based platform (odin diet, trade anywhere, powertrade, racepro, etc.) provided by your broker (downloadable from the broker's website or via the CDROM provided when you open the account)

in both the above, you need to login with your "trading user id" and "trading user password"

for the first time, you have to transfer money to your "trading/demat account" either by giving a check (cheque) or transferring funds online, via web browser link, which is provided by the above platforms 1. and 2., the link will take you to the "Bank's website" where you enter your banking username and password to transfer the funds to your broker's account (your trading account). When the money is transferred/credited to your trading account, you can buy or sell using the web or software based buy and sell forms. And to withdraw your money, the broker's site will give your the link for that too, and the money will be credit in 2-4 days in your bank account.

You don't need to contact your broker over the phone to trade online. Though, when you have net connection problem or power-cut situations, then you should use your phone for the trading with the help of the dealers/broker.