Voice over Internet Protocol

VoIP Telephony

Voice over Internet Protocol, or VoIP, is simply a way to send voice calls and audio session over the Internet, including the Internet itself. VoIP telephony has grown to become a very important part of many communication systems. Many businesses use it, including those that provide VoIP services to their clients. Individuals also use VoIP telephony for both business and private purposes. The growth in popularity of VoIP has led to more advanced technical aspects of the technology, requiring greater expertise from those who are operating it.

VoIP allows you to make telephone calls using a computer and Internet connection instead of using traditional telecommunications carriers, such as landlines. VoIP services are often offered at reasonable rates by providers, making them easy to use. They are ideal for distance travelers as well as people who use multiple phones for various purposes, like business and personal.

In general, VoIP telephony is made possible when two or more computers are connected to the Internet using either an open service (as with an ISP) or a broadband connection. A digital telephone adapter, or phone adapter, is also needed. The services run on standard protocols, and the VoIP software allows the transferring of voice packets between the computer and the service provider. Some services use the SIP protocol as well.

The typical VoIP service provides features similar to those offered on a conventional telephone system. An incoming phone number displays on the computer screen, and the caller's name appears as well. In addition, some services include a feature that allows the user to see the person who is calling, as well as a preview of the conversation that will later be deleted when the call is finished.

Most services also include the facility to make long distance calls at a cheaper price than usual. Calls can also be placed to anywhere in the world using a regular telephone. VoIP phones are also useful for remote offices where phone books are impractical. Other features include the ability to make conference calls without connecting the computer to the Internet; the ability to send faxes; the option of receiving faxes by email and Internet faxing.

VoIP has some advantages over traditional telecommunications systems. VoIP systems are easy to use, because they make use of text-based protocols rather than use of any other protocols. They are also scalable to allow for high bandwidth transmission speeds and allow the use of multiple phone lines. In addition, because VoIP uses digital voice transmission instead of analog signals, call clarity and reliability tend to be better than with other technologies.

One disadvantage of VoIP is that voice mail and other fax services tend not to be included. You will have to use your own fax machine for this function. Some VoIP services also tend to charge a monthly fee to use these services. Other services and options such as video conferencing and web collaboration may also be available for an additional fee.

In summary VoIP telephony offers many advantages over traditional phone services. It is generally less expensive, requires very little technical support and has a wider range of services available. The disadvantages of VoIP are that it does require a high-speed Internet connection and some businesses find it difficult to adapt to using VoIP. However, if you are not concerned about the initial cost and you are reasonably happy with the functionality of VoIP, then it could well be a great choice.

One of the first things you need to do before deciding to make the switch to VoIP is to carefully look at what your current telecommunications needs are. A good VoIP provider should offer both mobile and fixed services, as well as the ability to conference. It is important to consider what additional costs you will have to cope with. Depending on the area that you intend to cover, you will most likely need to purchase hardware and enter into contracts with providers.

One of the main attractions of VoIP is that it enables you to reduce your costs and effectively transform how you manage your business communications. By transmitting your calls over the internet, you can avoid the expenses associated with using landlines. You will also be able to avoid the expense of maintaining and servicing a physical infrastructure, something of which the landline industry is very keen to protect.

It is also possible to use VoIP services when travelling abroad, which can be extremely beneficial in situations where you are based in different time zones. By using international toll free access lines, which are usually offered by VoIP service providers, you will be able to place your voice calls and receive payment for them in one currency. Your call details will then be sent to the service provider in the country you are in, allowing you to manage all of your business contacts from multiple locations.