An intelligent network interface apparatus to provide always-on, always-connected processing for call signals is described. One embodiment of the apparatus includes logic to selectively handle incoming call signals even when a computer to which the apparatus is operably connected is unavailable (e.g., asleep). The apparatus may also include logic for selectively waking up a sleeping computer upon determining that incoming call signals indicate that a communication with the computer is desired. The incoming call signals may be associated with a voice over internet protocol (VoIP) communication.