What Is VoIP Phone Service? (Voice over Internet Protocol)

What Is VoIP?

VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) is a technology that routes voice traffic over IP networks. IP networks were first developed for data transmission but their popularity sparked the idea of using them for voice transmissions too. VoIP technology transfers voice data into digital signals and routes them through the IP network and then converts it back to a voice transmission on the other end. VoIP allows for calls directly from a PC, through a special VoIP phone, or through a traditional phone by using an adapter. Some others names for VoIP phone services include Voice over IP, Broadband Phone, Internet Phone Service, Digital Phone, and Internet Telephony.

What Are The Benefits Of VoIP?

The biggest benefit of getting VoIP telephone service is its extremely low cost. In most cases service providers charge a monthly fee that includes unlimited local and long distance calls and a less than average rate for international calls. It is also cheaper because there are currently no government regulatory fees associated with VoIP phones. Another great thing about VoIP service is that it can be taken anywhere. When you are making calls over the Internet it doesn't matter where you are as long as you have a broadband Internet connection and can access your VoIP software.

What Features Does VoIP Service Come With?

VoIP phones come with all of the usual feature that we have come to expect from traditional land line companies. This includes caller ID, call waiting, 3-way calling, conference calls, voicemail, call blocking, 411 directory assistance, last number re-dial, call forwarding, E911 service, and much more. VoIP also comes with several features that we are not use to seeing with traditional service. One neat feature is the ability to have your voice mails sent to you as an attachment through email. This is a pretty simple feature but creates and easy way to keep up with voicemail messages while checking your email.

What Are The Disadvantages of VoIP?

One disadvantage of VoIP service is a lack of 911 emergency services as compared to what you get with a standard land line. Luckily technological advancements have allowed for an E911 service that is comparable to what you get with a regular land line. Another disadvantage is the possibility of not being able to use your VoIP service when there is a power outage. In most cases this seems to be of little concern because nearly everybody has a cell phone that could be used if a power outage occurs.

What Equipment Is Needed For VoIP Service?

First and foremost you will need a broadband Internet connection. Beside that the only equipment that is usually needed in order to setup VoIP service is either an analog telephone adapter (ATA) or VoIP phone. All you have to do is hook up the ATA to your modem and telephone and then your VoIP phone line will be directly linked to your normal telephone. You will also need the VoIP software that will be supplied by your service provider if you want to use your computer for calls.

What Is The Difference Between Local, Long Distance,and International VoIP Calling?

In most cases these days you get free local and long distance calling with your VoIP service provider. Most, if not all VoIP providers charge for international calling but the rate in generally a lot cheaper than what you would expect to pay if you had a traditional land line.