Voice Over Internet Protocol (VoIP)
Internet Voice or Internet Phone or Broadband Phone is also known as Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) and is a technology that enables IP-Enabled Services that allows you to make phone calls using a broadband Internet connection. Digital signals are used for this purpose while analog signals are used for a regular phone line. Some services allow you to call other VoIP customers using the same service provider while others allow you to call anyone who has a telephone number which would include local, long distance, mobile and international numbers. Some services only work over your computer or with a special VoIP phone, other services allow you to use a traditional phone through an adapter.what is voice over internet protcol:
VoIP uses a data network like the Internet to make telephone calls using a computer network. VoIP converts the telephone voice signal that is an analog signal into digital signal so that it can be sent and received over the Internet then converted back once again. To place a VoIP call using a phone you will need an adapter so that you will still here the dial tone as usual when you listen. You may also make a VoIP call directly from your computer by using a conventional telephone or a microphone.What is needed toplace a VoIP Call?
Depending on the service you may choose or have presently, one way to make a VoIP call is as simple as just picking up your phone and then to dial the number when using an adaptor that connects to existing a high-speed Internet connection. The call will then go through your local telephone company to a VoIP provider. The phone call then travels through the Internet to the called party local telephone company until the call is finished. Another way is utilize your computers microphone headset input and plug it into your computer. The number is then placed using the keyboard then routed through your cable modem or DSL connection.
What kind of equipment is needed?
A broadband (high speed Internet) connection is required. This can be done using a cable modem or high speed services such as DSL or a local area network. You can then connect an inexpensive microphone into your computer to send your voice through cable modem or connect a phone directly to telephone adaptor.What are the Local and Long Distance Difference?
Some VoIP providers usually offer their services for free to other subscribers of the same service. Your VoIP may allow you to select a different area code from the one in which you live. This also means that you may not be charged as a long distance call if you select the right area code regardless of your current geography. However someone else might be charged as a long distance call if depending on their area code and service.Some VoIP providers charge for a long distance call to a number outside of your calling area which is very similar to existing traditional wireline telephone service. Other VoIP providers grant you the privilege to call anywhere at a flat rate for a fixed number of minutes.
Who can I call now that I have VoIP service?
Depending on your service they might limit you to calling subscribers to their service or you might be able to call any phone number anywhere in the world. You can call a local number, mobile phone, long distance number or an international number. You can even use your service to speak with more than one person at a time because the person you are calling does not need to any special equipment but a phone.What Are Some Advantages of Internet Voice?
Because VoIP is digital it may offer features and services unavailable currently to the traditional phone. If you have a broadband internet connection, you do not need to pay for an additional line to make telephone calls.With VoIP plans in the many you may be able to talk for as long as you want with anyone in the world (requirement being that the other person has an Internet connection). You may also talk with many people at the same time at no additional cost or charge.