VOIP Call Vs Regular Phone Call

VoIP, which stands for Voice over Internet Protocol, is a service that allows people to make telephone calls over the Internet. In order to use VOIP, a person will need a VOIP service along with some type of input device to record their voice. This can be a microphone or something more sophisticated such as a VOIP-designed telephone. Indeed, VOIP is quite an impressive technology, but how does it compare specifically against the traditional telephone? This article will examine that question by evaluating the three main differences between VOIP and traditional phones. These differences are: cost, voice quality and the ability to make emergency phone calls.

One of the biggest differences between VOIP and traditional telephone service is in the area of cost, as VOIP tends to be cheaper. However, this will largely depend on the type of VOIP service a person decides to use. For example, there are quite a few VOIP services that are free, but the quality is awful. Then there are those like Skype where users can have access to VOIP for a nominal yearly subscription fee. Alternatively, there are VOIP services like Yahoo Phone, which work on a prepaid basis. However, in all of these scenarios, the issue of long distance is the same… it is either free or significantly cheaper than what would get with a traditional telephone. This is the case whether the calls are done nationwide or internationally.

The next difference between VOIP and the traditional telephone line is in regards to voice quality. Most land line telephone services will always have excellent quality. This is not the case with VOIP, which has good quality sometimes. In fact even premium VOIP services tend to not do as well as a regular telephone. Of course, there are ways to try to improve VOIP quality. For instance, having a DSL connection significantly helps with VOIP reception. Also, it helps to try to not overload one’s Internet connection with a lot of downloads, since this frees up more bandwidth for a VOIP service. Yet, doing these things will only make the voice quality so good with VOIP.

In conclusion, the three main differences between VOIP and normal telephones are cost, voice quality and whether or not a person can make emergency calls. Both obviously have their advantages and disadvantages, though VOIP is not enough by itself to meet a person’s complete telephone needs. Yet, if a person wants to make a lot of long distance calls, especially international ones, the regular telephone bill would just be too expensive. So, all in all, while VOIP cannot currently replace a traditional phone line, it does make for a nice complement to it.

How to Save Money on your Phone Bill

A lot has been said and discussed about the virtues of the many of possible VOIP solutions and how this technology is one of the best inventions since the creation of the Internet. Many marketing ideas have been put in action to educate people about the fact that this technology offers so many advantages over regular phone service, that a baby could tell one is better than the other, so making a financially smart decision in the telephony field is not that difficult.

There are several phone companies out there that you would think by having so much competition that prices would be cheaper but the fact is they are not. Local phone companies who don't have close competition are the worst of any kind, because they keep the prices high regardless of demand. They know that users need their service so they charge whatever they want. People have to pay it or not have phone service. Well if you are one of those people that are or have experienced these problem there is a new solution for you , VOIP. VOIP short for Voice over IP which is the most cost-effective technology right now available on the net.

Everyone that knows about VOIP is using it as well as spreading the word to everyone they know. VOIP works by converting conversations into a digital digital packets of data that are transmitted over the net. If you are wanting to call a regular phone number then the signal is changed back into a regular telephone signal before reaching its destination. MSN Messenger used this very same technology You can use VOIP to do all your calling for extremely competitive rates. Unlike phone companies who often charge high rates per minute most VOIP providers only charge a small monthly fee, which can save you more than a few bucks!. This would allow you to eliminate the need for one detailed bill a month. With VOIP you can call anywhere in the world or just local.

This new technology you decide where you call and how much you want to pay. There are three calling options when using VOIP. You could use a VOIP enabled phone , you can use a regular telephone along with a VOIP adapter or using a computer with speakers and microphone to call. VOIP lets you use the web without making your phone line unavailable. With some phone companies charging as much as thirty five cents a minute or hundreds for unlimited calling, VOIP is the best choice for those who use the phone a lot. Its not only affordable but its more convenient.

A good VOIP solution can save you a ton of money, but it is best if you understand your own calling habits and the way that you will use this technology. It also requires a good high-speed web connection so that when you call others they won't think you are calling them from a box. Sit down and write on a piece of paper all the costs this technology involves and make a good financial decision, whether you are searching for a VOIP solution for home or for business.

The 5 Biggest Benefits to Adding VOIP

There are many benefits and advantages to switching from Public Switched Telephone Network. VOIP technology is growing and changing every day. Major corporations are transferring their business needs over to VOIP and households worldwide are making the switch. VOIP is produced by transferring voice into digital data over the Internet. Because the data is smaller compared to a standard electric unit, VOIP users save on valuable bandwidth as well. If you have a high-speed connection in your home, then you can utilize VOIP. You may need to purchase some equipment, such as a VOIP phone adapter. The phone adapter will allow you to use all of your telephones with the VOIP technology. You may also need to purchase a router. Most of your VOIP service providers will supply you with the hardware that you need. You even have the option of purchasing phones designed for VOIP as well as Videophones that will display images while you speak. VOIP is the wave of the future. Many major computer companies have already begun to incorporate VOIP with their Instant Messaging programs. Yahoo has also recently purchased the VOIP Company, Dial Pad. Now, Instant Messaging programs such as MSN, Yahoo, Google, and AOL allow pc-pc phone calls. The world is making the switch to VOIP, but in case you are still unsure if VOIP is right for you, here are five benefits to adding VOIP to your home and business.

1. VOIP is Cost Efficient
Whether for your residence or business, VOIP is just plain cheaper then other telecommunication applications. You can reduce cost in your home by saving on long distance and local telephone calls. Many VOIP service providers have plans that allow unlimited local and long distance calling. You will have to check with various companies to see how far their unlimited local and long distance calling areas serve. You also save money by using VOIP throughout your house. You won’t need to install additional phone jacks and wires, you just add on to your VOIP system.

2. VOIP will Integrate your Audio, Data, and Video Applications.
VOIP systems can integrate your telephone needs with your computer applications such as E-mail, Fax, Web conferencing, and Video Phone needs. This saves money and energy by combining all of these services into one basic application. You can use your phone and access all of your other programs at the same time, allowing greater freedom and is a simpler way for the home owner to utilize all of these different products.

3. VOIP Provides Flexibility
VOIP allows users tremendous flexibility. For instance, many VOIP users can take their phone adapter with them, and use their telephone number anywhere they have access to an Internet connection. This includes traveling overseas, while staying in hotels, or even camping. If you have high speed Internet, you will be able to take phone calls on your regular number. This is a much better solution for those with active lifestyles compared to the expense of cell phones as well as being the perfect solution for mobile employees and those whose jobs require much travel.

4. VOIP Users Can Choose their Own Area Codes
VOIP providers allow users to choose their own area codes. This is a fantastic option for those whose friends and family all live in one particular location, and they are out of state. By choosing your family and friend’s area code, you are allowing them to call you, whenever they choose, and they will not have to pay long distance charges. Their calls will be local. Some providers extend the area codes to other countries. This would be extremely beneficial to someone whose friends and family are halfway across the world.

5. VOIP offers Features for Free
Features that typically cost extra with PSTN phone services are usually bundled with VOIP unlimited calling plans. These features include Voice Mail, Call Forwarding, Caller ID, Call Waiting, Call Return, Call Block, and Do Not Disturb. Because of the integration between VOIP and the Internet, many service providers will allow you to access and control all of your VOIP phone features through the Internet. With VoIP, users have greater access to control all of their phone features as well as save on charges.

VOIP - What You Really Need to Know

For the past ten years, the Internet has played a huge role in every one's lives. From computer games to managing finances and new flourishing industries, the World Wide Web has been thriving in every one's eyes. Now that it has entered all of our homes, it has started to take over our phone lines as well. Of course this is no surprise, as Internet phone calls have always been in the background. However, recently, VOIP has finally caught thousands of people's attention.

For those who don't know, VOIP has become the latest way to connect with others. In simpler terms, it is a phone call that comes directly from an Internet connection. It is not only going to be the future of the telephone industry, but it will attract thousands of consumers because it comes with a lot of different advantages. No matter how budget conscious you are, you will most likely love VOIP's affordability. We all have experienced long distance fees and extravagant monthly bills. For this reason, many telephone subscribers feel that VOIP is a blessing in disguise, as the prices and fees are twice as low. On the other hand, there are some downsides to this form of service. Unfortunately, businesses are going to have to deal with downtime and the possibility of a bad connection. After all, the Internet always has occasional issues, and may require extra attention and additional fees. Nevertheless, as long as they give it a try for a few months, the benefits are usually overwhelming. Regardless of potential problems, large firms like IBM have embraced it with open arms.

In order to use VOIP, all you need is a computer, a microphone, speakers an Internet connection and a VOIP program. Surprisingly, many VOIP programs are free or very affordable to buy. With a pair of speakers and a phone number to dial, you are easily on your way to using VOIP. Due to the popularity of wireless Internet, anyone can place a phone call, no matter where they are. It is a convenient alternative, especially if you are displeased with regular telephones. For this reason, there are already thousands of users becoming regular VOIP users. In the future, most home owners will be a customer.

If you do not want to use this form of VOIP, there is another alternative. There are specialized VOIP phones that often come with video conferencing. This is a great product for any business that has long distance clients or other offices. Companies like IBM love the fact that they have a VOIP system, because it offers such affordability and convenience. No matter what type of package you are looking to get, VOIP offers it all. It is not only going to be a bargain for people who are dying to save money, but soon everyone will be using this new form of technology.

Pros and Cons of VOIP

Pros
One advantage of using VOIP is the cost of the service. Phone service using VOIP costs less than similar service offered from traditional phone services, especially in regards to long distance telephone calls. Long distance calls through VOIP are offered at flat rates, which will ultimately benefit the consumer. Also, VOIP allows the consumer to share its voice and data equipment, which means that the costs are also shared. In other words, if you have an Internet connection already in place, VOIP can be used at almost no extra cost, and any network capacity that you are not currently using can be used for making calls. Another key benefit of using VOIP is the fact that incoming calls can be automatically routed to your VOIP phone regardless of where you are connected to the Internet. This is especially important for those who go on business trips. VOIP phones can also be integrated with other Internet services, such as videoconferences and file transfers. A user can send or receive messages or data while on their VOIP phone.

Cons
One cause for concern with VOIP is emergency 911 service. Before the government stepped in, 911 was not an optional feature for VOIP service providers, and 911 calls made after-hours were not guaranteed to be routed to the local areas emergency call centers of the caller. Another disadvantage of the VOIP service is the lack of encryption, which means that it is relatively easy for someone to eavesdrop on a VOIP call and even change the content of the call. There are a few solutions to this problem, but they do not guarantee full security of any calls. Airtight security would require the user to utilize encryption and cryptographic authentication, which are not yet readily available to consumers. A third drawback is the inconsistent sound quality of the calls made with VOIP. The sound quality is oftentimes fickle and calls often have delays and echoes as well. This means that some calls made with VOIP might not be as smooth and natural as calls made over landline phones.

VoIP: the way of new telecommunications future.

As technology has improved, the features associated with VoIP calling mean that cost reduction is now no longer the only reason that business are taking up a VoIP business solution. The benefits of a VoIP business solution include:

1. Free Calls- VoIP to VoIP- if you are a business with multiple sites, you would be silly not to get a VoIP business solution as it offers you the ability to have free calls between all your sites.
2. Low Call Rates- VoIP call rates WILL be much cheaper than whatever rates you are currently paying.
3. Simple Administration- Current business phone systems require specialized knowledge to maintain, whilst with a VoIP business solution it can all be managed very simply from a computer.
4. Simplified Infrastructure- You will no longer have to pay for expensive phone systems if you implement a VoIP business solution in your workplace.
5. Scalable- A VoIP solution can grow as your business grows quite simply.
6. Future Friendly- VoIP is the way of the future, so you may as well get on the bandwagon now before all your current telecommunications technology becomes outdated.
7. Video Conferencing- With a webcam and a broadband connection, A VoIP business solution makes video conferencing extremely easy.
8. Presence- Many VoIP solutions allow you to show people when you are online and available to take calls, and when you are busy.
9. Text Messaging- If you cannot make a call, VoIP solutions offer you the chance to have a written conversation through the ability to instantly text message.
10. File Sharing- VoIP business solutions conveniently allow you to share files with colleagues and clients whilst you are on the phone to them.
11. VoIP has come a long way since the early buzz, and it is time to make the switch to a VoIP business solution for your business.

Introduction to VOIP

What is VOIP?
The first question which comes in our mind is What is VOIP? The acronym VOIP stands for Voice Over IP, also called as Internet Telephony, Broadband Phone and voice over Broadband, it is a technology that provides telephone service over the Internet. VOIP transforms voice signals from a telephone or computer microphone into small data packets, and then sends them over the Internet.Earlier in 1945 VOIP was debuted as a networking channel similar to
chat rooms, with the exceptions of microphone and handsets. The first ever service of this kind was limited to computer to computer communication, people were attracted to this service because by the use of this technology they could easily avoid long distance telephone bill. People could now communicate with each other free even by sitting on the opposite ends of the world by using this service. In the past few years, VOIP service providers have enhanced the technology to include telephone to telephone calling just like a land line (analog) telephone service. To better understand VOIP technology, it helps to describe how analog telephone service works compared to the Internet.

Working of Analog Telephone Service
When an analog telephone call is connected to the other telephone, a circuit on a telephone line is opened and remains open throughout the connection while a stream of voice signals travels over the line. If tens of thousands of circuits are open at the same time over one telephone line it can become crowded and affect the speed and quality of the connection. Similarly a dial-up Internet
connection uses a telephone line to transfer data but it is much slower and less efficient due to low data transfer rate than a high-speed broadband or DSL Internet connection, which in turn allows more data to pass through it in a second.
The Internet in turn uses a line with much more space (bandwidth) available than analog telephone lines. Any thing which transfers through the Internet is done by transferring the data or signals into data packets, which uses less space, it's for this reason cable television and the
Internet can use the same line. When a data packet is sent over the Internet, a circuit is opened, the packet is sent, and then it closes. The other end of the circuit only opens when the packet reaches its destination. This process requires less bandwidth and the line doesn't become crowded, which translates into a more efficient, high-speed transfer of data.

Essential Equipment
VOIP services require a high-speed Internet connection (dial-up connection doesn't work). Most providers will use any Internet service, anyhow, some require their customers to use their Internet service. For computer to computer communication a headset and microphone and computer are required and for telephone to telephone service only a telephone adapter and a telephone are required.

Drawbacks
One drawback is the difficulty in sending faxes due to software and networking constraints in most home systems, another drawback of VoIP service is its reliance upon another separate service - an Internet connection. The quality and overall reliability of the phone connection is entirely reliant upon the quality, reliability, and speed of the Internet connection which it is using, another drawback of VoIP is the likely inability to make phone calls during a power outage, though this problem is shared with some conventional phones which require more power than the landline itself can supply.

Benefit
VOIP service is popular among consumers because of the over-all cost savings compared to analog telephone services. Most VOIP services offer the same (if not more) features as analog telephone services at a lower price and long distance calls between users of the same service are usually free. Technology has improved the reliability and voice quality over time and will continue to improve VoIP performance as time goes on. With hardware VoIP solutions it is possible to connect the VoIP router into the existing central phone box in the house and have VoIP at every phone already connected. Software based VoIP services require the use of a computer, so they are limited to single point of calling, though handsets are now available, allowing them to be used without a PC.