A Basic Understanding Of VOIP
Many people are hearing for the first time about VOIP. VOIP, or
voice over internet protocol, is a method of talking on the
phone through the use of the internet. It works by taking analog
audio signals and turns them into digital data which can then be
transmitted over the web. Sounds confusing? Really, it is simple
and very interesting. This technology has been developed and
used extensively. Today, more and more people are switching
their long distance service away from traditional means and
focusing them on VOIP simply because it offers high quality and,
get ready for this, affordable prices!
In effect, it allows you to get free phone calls through your
internet connection. In fact, you can use VOIP instead of using
any of the phone company products and therefore you do not have
to pay them for what you can get for free using VOIP. Sounds
great, doesn't it?
There are several providers out there that are now offering VOIP
service. In fact, some of the traditional phone companies are
realizing that this is the way of the future for their business
and are developing networks across the United States. Although
the technology for the VOIP system has been around for a while,
not many carriers put it to use. But, Vonage is one of those
that did. And, they have a growing percentage of individuals on
their plans now. They are growing because this is an affordable
way to make phone calls. Many see VOIP as the phone systems that
will be used well into the future.
How Do You Do It?
There are several ways in which the phone call using VOIP can be
used.
The first and most common is ATA. This is the simplest
method. It allows you to plug into the computer using a analog
telephone adaptor. You will plug your standard telephone into
the ATA and then plug the ATA into the computer. As you can see,
this sounds simple and works well for most. There is software
that is needed to configure the system but like most other
programs it is relatively simple to use.
Another way to use the VOIP service is through IP
phones. These phones look just like traditional phones but have
special adapters on them. The phones will connect to the
computer using an RJ-45 Ethernet connector. This way, they can
plug directly into your router. The phones themselves have all
the necessary technology stored on them. Soon, you will find
that there will be phones that use Wi-Fi connections in that
they will allow you to make VOIP calls anywhere there is a Wi-Fi
hot spot.
Lastly, there is even an easier method for using VOIP.
Computer to computer systems are available that allow you to
never pay for any long distance phone calls again. Using a
microphone, speakers and a sound card that your computer may
already have, you can talk via the internet to anyone else. In
most cases, there is no charge for these calls besides those of
paying for your internet service.
Why Should I Have It?
We have talked about how it works, but why should you switch to
a VOIP service? The fact is that this system is one that allows
for the most affordable pricing of any long distance phone
service. Let's face it, that is what most people are looking at.
But, there is more to it than just that.
You have flexibility in the use of your VOIP service as
well. You can take your adapter with you to virtually any
location around the world that has broadband technology and hook
into your home service. You can also use your computer to make
calls anywhere it can get on the internet. As long as you have a
microphone and speakers, you are set to use your VOIP service.
Features. There are just as many and more features that
can be used through the VOIP service. Such things as caller ID,
call waiting, three way calling and repeat dialing are available
through the VOIP service. Call forwarding, voicemail, or even
screen your calls using the service, are all options that you'll
have as well. In fact, you can check your voicemail online or
send emails with attachments.
It is also easy to use. Once you get through the
initial installation process and become familiar with how the
system works, you are sure to be able to take advantage of it
fully. It is as simple as doing what you do now.
VOIP is the telephone system of the future. There is little
doubt that you will see it used more and more so in business and
in homes around the world. Take advantage of the huge savings
that this system can offer you and you'll see just why so many
want to take advantage of VOIP!