Voice Over Internet Protocol (VoIP) - All the Information You Need

VoIP technology is revolutionary in that it combines internet access with telephone service therefore utilizing the same technology for two very different things. Now, instead of having a traditional phone connection, VoIP technology enables you to use your internet broadband connection to make telephone calls.

1) So how does a VoIP phone work?

Firstly, you need a broadband connection and a router. This device works by allowing you to take phone calls as before. However, with a VoIP phone, the connection is now digital instead of through a phone line. A VoIP phone also has a gateway that connects you to a network. Your voice is then converted to a digital sound and this information can be sent in packets enabling you to have great sound and connection to people with and without the VoIP service.

2) What do you need to get started? Of course, you need a broadband internet connection. Although VoIP can work with other internet service providers, the voice reception quality will not be as it would be with broadband.

3) What are the benefits of a VoIP phone? The main benefit is that the VoIP phone costs much less that the traditional phone lines. This applies whether you use a cell phone or home phone service. Unlike home phone services, regular long distance callers really notice the benefits of a VoIP phone. The more long distance calls you make the more you save since with a VoIP phone the location of the caller and the person receiving the call is not important. Since you are also able to take you adapter with you, this service is perfect for the travelers among you. VoIP phones are also cost effective if you wish to add to your service. For example, instead of the normal fee of adding a phone line to your traditional home service, you need only pay a minimal amount since those with VoIP phones need to install any additional equipment.

4) Are there any disadvantages of switching to a VoIP phone? Although there are some disadvantages, however these are minor. Poor voice quality can occur when the reception is poor. However, this is something we already have to contend with cell phones. Also, since a VoIP phone is connected to a broadband connection, if the company supplying you with this connection has any problem with its power supply, then your call will automatically be cut off. This may also occur when there is poor signal in an area.

5) What are the future applications? Presently, the majority of companies allow you to be online at the same time as making calls. There are no limitations to this service and in this area can only grow and progress in the future. VoIP phone use will become more and more common and easier to use, as digital phones will be made. This means that a customer no longer needs a router and this will lead to VoIP phones becoming more popular than the traditional phone line.

Seymour Brown writes articles for http://www.voip-basics.com

The Basics of VoIP

VoIP, also known as Voice over Internet Protocol, is a new technology that utilizes the routing of voice conversations over the Internet. Basically, individuals can now use their broadband Internet connections to place phone calls rather than using their traditional phone lines. Ideally, the sound quality is the same as that of a standard telephone line and therefore the people on the other end of the phone call will never know the difference.

The technology, though complex, is quite direct. The VoIP provider takes the regular, analog voice conversations and converts them into data that can then be sent across the Internet using a high-speed broadband connection. At the other end of the call, the data is converted back into an analog signal that the conventional telephone system can deliver to the person whose number was initially dialed. All of this is accomplished seamlessly while using normal telephones at both ends. In other words, you don't have to speak through your computer's microphone in order to get the most out of VoIP services.

There are many advantages to switching over to a VoIP service, but the biggest one is cost. For the most part, long-distance and international calls will be significantly less expensive for individuals using a VoIP service rather than a traditional long-distance or international plan. Most VoIP service providers also offer a number of additional free features already established with traditional phone plans, such as Call Waiting, Caller ID, Voicemail and more.

There are other advantages as well. For example, because of the convergence between your VoIP phone service and the Internet, some providers will even allow you to receive Voicemail messages as email attachments. Also, if you have a cable broadband connection, you may be able to keep your current telephone number as well.

Signing up for a VoIP plan is actually quite simple. Really, all you need is a broadband Ethernet connection such as DSL or cable, any touch-tone phone (corded or cordless) and a credit or debit card with a U.S. billing and shipping address. Your VoIP provider will supply you with the proper phone adapter upon signing up, usually at no additional cost. As for the person on the other end of the call, all they need is a regular phone. They don't need to use a VoIP service or even have an Internet connection for the call to go through.

Lastly, although VoIP calls are placed through your Internet connection, they will not affect your ability to use your computer. Thus, if you wish, you can continue to surf the web and send emails while you're on the phone. Also, because VoIP utilizes your Internet connection and not your computer, your computer does not even need to be turned on in order for you to place a call.

For more information and articles relating to VoIP and the Voice over IP industry, please visit us at http://www.useVoIP.org

Will Thomas is a staff writer for useVoIP.org which is an online resource providing VoIP Information and Articles

Why Business Should Switch to VoIP

Company should choose to unplug and switch to VoIP technology because there are many advantages for using VoIP. Here is an overview of five reasons that your business should make the switch to VoIP.

VoIP is perfect for Call Centers

VoIP is slowly becoming the standard choice for Call Centers. VoIP offers some major benefits for Call Centers such as flexibility, cost efficiency, and enhanced customer service applications. For instance, in the past, a Call Center needed to be a stabilized facility equipped with many phone lines used by people who would physically be located in the Call Center. By using VoIP for your Call Center, not only is your main location easily relocated as your business expands, but you can hire employees virtually world wide. Larger companies take advantage of VoIP Call Centers by outsourcing work overseas where they can hire employees for less.

The Integration of data, audio, and web based features is another reason why businesses are opting for VoIP. Customer service calls are handled more efficiently with the integration of these three components. Not only are calls transferred more proficiently, but also greater care can be given to customers when Call Centers use integrated software platforms.

More Call Centers are taking advantage of the opportunity to hire employees world wide through VoIP services. Employees may work in different time zones, giving greater customer service benefits year round, and hiring home based employees is another way businesses are choosing to save money.

VoIP is better for Mobile Employees

Many companies employ mobile workers. Mobile Employees have typically used cell phones at the company's expense to stay in touch during the day. By utilizing VoIP Mobile Employees can remain virtually connected with the company, and the company saves money on fees.

When mobile employees rely on cell phones, many times a customer will call the main office, only to hear a message or be told the worker's cell phone number. This requires the customer to hang up and call the employee on their cell phone- increasing the chance that the employee will lose the sale. By using VoIP, a call is instantly routed to the mobile employee and productivity increases.

Since VoIP integrates many other technologies, including E-mail, mobile employees are able to conduct many more transactions with one application.

VoIP Reduces Cost

Businesses today depend upon telecommunications. Whether it is Internet, E-mail, Customer Service through telephone, online web applications, and E-mail, or whatever your IT business needs may be, VoIP offers to handle all of your needs with one application. Additionally, this reduces cost and increases productivity. VoIP also has combined with software applications that are perfect for many business needs. Software such as accounting programs, Email, and PC based applications help to save money by combining services.

The reduction in long distance charges is another great advantage for switching to VoIP for business needs. By combining data, video, and audio needs, companies save on bandwidth usage, which ultimately leads to financial savings.

VoIP allows Real Time Global Conferencing

Global conferencing and training can put a burden on a business. Attempts to reach employees worldwide are not only expensive but time consuming as well. With VoIP technology businesses can avoid conferencing costs, and enable secure audio and videoconferences to offices worldwide. By reducing long distance costs, employees are also taking advantage of calling each other and corporate headquarters more frequently.

VoIP offers Flexibility that Ultimately Increases Productivity VoIP allows greater flexibility. By using a standard VoIP Phone Adapter, you are able to take your telephone number with you. This allows greater productivity by allowing employees to conduct business overseas, while traveling, staying in hotels, etc. Your customers will be able to call you on your regular business phone number, and you won't have to use your cell phone.

Many VoIP services are fully integrated with PC applications such as fax and email. There is greater productivity when employees can integrate their email and phone services with one application. Conduct business with VoIP on your laptop, any time day or night.

With the option to get VoIP phone numbers with area codes throughout the country, and some world wide, businesses can expand by choosing local area codes for the city, state, or country they are targeting.

Olivia Tan is co-publisher of VoIP Ebook. She provides tips and review on business VoIP and residential VoIP.

VoIP Communication: Technology Helps Your Business

Communication has come a long way from the time of smoke signals. What was new yesterday is considered required today. Technology advances are fast and furious and to keep ahead in the business world you must advance along with it, or risk missing out on the new moon.

The speed and effectiveness of your communication infrastructure is vital in today's marketplace, where clients expect instant results. In addition, your ability to virtualize your office is key in a decentralized and mobile environment. Assisting your customers and making them feel serviced is vital in a world where price comparisons can be retrieved in an instant. Service will set you apart. This is where advanced communication technology can help.

The following is an example of how Life Communications LLC assisted a business improve their communications effectiveness, work product and bottom line. Saran Importers Inc. (name has been changed) is an importer of many products, including clothing, undergarments and electronics. They have small offices in California, Michigan and Texas with their headquarters in Brooklyn, NY. The Michigan and Texas offices have two salesmen per location, while the California office has three operations people and one salesman. The Brooklyn headquarters has 10 operations people and three salesmen. For the sake of simplicity, the definition of "operations people" is people who don't travel extensively, while salesmen do.

They had a Lucent Partner system in Brooklyn and small SOHO (Small Office Home Office) Panasonic multi-phones in the remote locations. They communicated with the remote locations by calling them over a regular phone line and with the salesman by office number or cell phones, which they also gave to the clients. Some problems arose from this arrangement. The following are a sample:

- High cost of inter-office communications.

- Multiple places for voice-mail. Hard to manage.

- If the cell phone was dead or otherwise not available the calls went to voicemail or were lost.

- If a salesman was unavailable for extended periods (more than one day) it affected communications with clients.

- No call accounting. No management of remote offices.

Life Communications replaced their Lucent system with a customized PC-based advanced phone system. In the remote locations they put Voice Over IP (VOIP) phones that communicated directly with the VoIP phone system over secure private network DSL lines. This enabled the remote offices to have all the advanced features of the main office.

They also setup a feature that enabled the salesman to manage where they can be reached. In doing so, they would be able to give out a single phone number that routed through the phone system. They would direct where the phone would ring or even the order of where they can be reached and the amount of times it would ring by each location. If the call would go to voicemail the voicemail would actually reside on the phone system and a voice file would be emailed to the salesman. Some salesmen chose to have a copy, of the voice file, also emailed to the operations person who handled their accounts.

This solved their problems by doing the following:

- Cut down, drastically, on the cost of inter-office communications. The costs of the DSL lines are marginalized due to their dual-use as data lines. All calls between offices are now as if they are in the same office, they communicate by calling the extension, not an outside number.

- One place for voice-mail, all located on the phone system. Cell phone calls are now called by the phone system and if the salesman is unavailable it puts it in the internal voice-mail. This allows for easier voice-mail management.

- Due to the advanced routing feature, calls can ring by multiple places to reach a person who can help the client.

- When salesmen are now unavailable the calls can be automatically rerouted to another salesman who can help.

- All calls, in all offices, can now be managed and kept track of. Client communications can be more effectively handled.

This is just a small sample of the improvements made to the business process. Another advantage to the VoIP system is; as new features, and advancements, come out they can be integrated into Saran's current platform. Expandability is also part and parcel of this VoIP experience; the system can grow as Saran grows. Cy Yablonsky is a realtor associate at Othello Realty,www.OthelloRealty.com. Cy has an extensive background in technology and communications and applies that to the real estate market. Feel free to reprint this article as long as all links stay live and no changes are made.

Cy Yablonsky is a realtor associate at Othello Realty,www.OthelloRealty.com. Cy has an extensive background in technology and communications and applies that to the real estate market. Feel free to reprint this article as long as all links stay live and no changes are made.

5 Benefits to Adding VoIP

There are many benefits and advantages to switching from PSTN- 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 Yahoo, MSN, 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Olivia Tan is co-publisher of http://www.AllVoipSolution.com. She provides tips and review on VoIP equipment and VoIP Service Providers.

VoIP Technology - Talk is Cheap!

VoIP products are integral to the most advanced and reliable VoIP and Voice over ATM platforms currently sold by leading VoIP telecom and networking companies worldwide. VoIP products based on VoIP enabled technology products employ Voice over Packet chip processors, VoIP PCI and cPCI communication boards and VoIP media gateway modules (PMC form factor).

VoIP companies provide voice over packet (VoIP) processors for OEM implementations of voice communications over packet networks or "VoIP". Each VoIP processor features low bit rate Vocoders, a State-of-the-art Echo Canceller and T.38 compliant fax relay. High and medium density gateways, residential gateways and integrated access devices (IAD) are among the major users of VoIP chip processors. These VoIP solutions power client applications from small gateways and IP phones... An As an indication of market size... one major VoIP provider has over 10 million ports installed and growing rapidly.

VoIP Products - Gateway Network The entire VoIP gateway network is based on continued advances in VoIP media boards that offer field proven solutions. Product design of proper PSTN interfaces is a critical factors in VoIP deployment. How can small or medium-sized gateways compete in the market? By implementing cost-effective solutions for enterprise or small POPs and fast market penetration into new and emerging markets. On the other hand, large VoIP gateways are designed to meet major carriers' operational requirements.

VoIP Products - Market Driven The rapid VoIP market expansion for VoIP Gateways led to the large diversity in VoIP products. Today, VoIP providers may choose from different sized gateways for VoIP networks of different sizes. Also, Mediant VoIP gateways enable carriers to address multi-regional requirements and strengthen economics of deployment. For instance, providing PSTN signaling and compression technology deployed in over 75 countries is quite a challenge. Fortunately, VoIP technology may quickly enter new regions and conserve precious bandwidth in hard-to-reach offices.

AudioCodes Ltd. is a market leader in voice compression technology and is a key originator of the ITU G.723.1 standard for the emerging VoIP market. AudioCodes enabling technology products include VoIP, CTI and call logging communication boards, VoIP media gateway processors and modules.

For more information on VoIP and emerging VoIP technology, visit AudioCodes

Johnny Mayer writes on travel, technology, software, diamonds and jewelry, business, music and more

The Basics Of VoIP Devices

Making long distance phone calls usually means that you have to commit to a long distance carrier through your phone company, and pay often steep per-minute charges and fees just to call a friend or loved one. Often, the cost of the phone call depends on the day and time of the day that you are making it, as well as the location you are calling to. The minutes you talk add up quickly, and the monthly long distance bill can be a shock to your system and your bank account. Fortunately, there is an exciting technology that is gives you the option of saying goodbye to traditional long distance for good. It is VOIP is or Voice Over Internet Protocol, and it's in the process of changing the face of long-distance telephone systems forever. VOIP works by taking analog audio systems and converting them into digital data, which can be sent over the Internet. This means that your kitchen telephone could possibly become obsolete. It will not be the only place to call friends and family that live far away. VOIP can make your Internet connection, and your home computer, the place that you make your long-distance phone calls - free of charge. Because you use VOIP devices and software that are widely available, the phone company is not involved. No phone company means that there are no hefty long-distance charges for you to pay. VOIP is a convenient and affordable way to keep in touch with those who live far away from you.

There are several types of VOIP devices available that can be used to place calls from your home computer. They are relatively simple to use, and often cost very little, if anything at all, to implement. They are all commonly in use, and each provides a slightly different take on this exciting technology. The most common device used in VOIP service currently is the ATA, or Analog Telephone Adapter. This VOIP device allows you to hook your typical telephone up to your home computer Internet connection. This device converts the analog audio signal from the phone and makes it possible to use over the Internet by converting it to transmittable digital data. The ATA is simple for anyone to use. Just plug the cord from your home phone that would usually go into the wall jack into the ATA, and it is set up for you to call anyone anywhere in the world.

Another type of VOIP device is the IP, or Internet Protocol, phone. An IP phone looks like a regular home telephone, complete with a handset and buttons for dialing. But, rather than having standard phone connectors (RJ-11), an IP phone is equipped with an Ethernet connection (RJ-45). This VOIP device connects to your computer's router, and allows you to make phone calls directly from your home computer, dialing it just like a typical home telephone.

Yet another type of VOIP device is known as computer-to-computer. With this method, long-distance phone calls are made free of charge. All you pay is the monthly ISP fee you are already paying. Many companies offer free or low-price software that you install on your computer. If your computer is equipped with a microphone, PC speakers, and a sound card in addition to your Internet connection, then you will quickly be set up to talk to anyone in the world using VOIP. This is an extremely easy and affordable type of VOIP device that allows you to keep in touch with those far away from you.

As you can see, not only will VOIP change the way you make phone calls forever, but it will save you money as well. Utilizing equipment that the vast majority of us already have in our homes today, VOIP technology provides consumers with easy and affordable options in long distance phone service. With the exception of your current ISP's monthly charges, there is little to no expense at all. And since there are several options of VOIP devices from which you can choose, there is no reason not to consider VOIP as your primary means of making long distance phone calls to far away friends and family. Learn the essential information for picking the Voip provider / services at Voip Devices

Stay Connected With Your Downline Using Free VoIP

Over the last few years I have noticed a large amount of my downline, sponsors and clients often have terrible phone calling plans depending on where they live. One of the top skills we as sponsors in our programs continually teach our teams to pick up the phone and call their downlines in an effort to help those people achieve success.

If you live in a good part of the country or a country that offers great phone calling plans you don't have much to worry about. However if you are unfortunate to live where the plan is very expensive, you may not be in a position to call your team properly. Keep in mind that a phone call can make the difference between getting an active member or losing that member for good.

So how do you solve this problem if you are an online marketer or business owner but you're one of the unfortunate people who cannot afford to call as much as you should? I may have a simple solution for you that will not break the bank. VOIP is Voice Over Internet Protocol. In other words you use your PC and your internet connection to make telephone calls for free or low monthly plans. You can even pay as you go in some cases.

Google Talk:
If you don't mind registeting for a free Gmail account at Google they offer free VOIP service that enables you to call or send instant messages your team, family and friends. Offering a quick download it should only take you about 3 minutes on a modem ( files size: 900K). One notable item is that it requires Windows XP/2000 with a minimum of a 56k (broadband recommended) connection. Dial up will work however broadband will be easy to talk and IM your friends.

iConnectHere | Broadband Phone:
What's nice about iConnectHere is it's low normal plans starting under twenty dollars. They will help you "Hang up on High Prices" as their slogan says. iConnectHere Broadband Phone offers low calling rates maybe the lowest in the world for your local, long distance and international telephone needs. Imagine being able to call that lead from Austailia! Their plans could save you up to 80% when compared with traditional phone service according to thier sites information. Plus their plans include bundled features at no extra cost.

As you can see just from the two services above you do now have a way to connect with your new referrals, sponsors, customers or even your family and friends can use free VOIP to cut costs. Using these types of services will help improve your support to your downline and won't cost you like it does when you use a land line phone system with their high cost calling plans.

If that's not enough for you here are two more services that will make it easy for you to contact the important people in your online business. This service is called Skype where the whole world can talk for free according to the Skype website.

Using the service Skype provides, you can call ordinary phone numbers all over the world. if your downline member has a bad calling plan as well Skype is a little program that allows anyone to make free calls over the internet to anyone else who also has the Skype software which is free, easy to download and to use. It also knows how to play nice with most computers available today.

Skype also offers Voicemail which lets you direct your incoming calls when you?re busy or offline to your voicemail. Your downline will be happy they can get in contact with you when they have questions.

NetZero also offers you a service where you can call people anywhere in the world from your computer for free. NetZero Voice makes calling as easy as instant messaging, except instead of typing (chatting) you are talking over your Internet connection for free.

Simple to use as with other similar services you just download the software, sign-in with your NetZero member ID and dial any NetZero member ID to begin talking for free and it works with dial-up or broadband.

Either way you look at it, now you can and really you should select one of these types of services so you can enable voice communications with your new referrals and customers. It just makes sense as people buy from people not websites or buildings. They buy from you, if you call them! Get VOIP and get in touch with them today! Joe Sansoucie is the owner of the Pay Per Click search engine http://Frogsearch.com where every Thursday evening he hosts a keyword workshop for new online business owners in an effort to help them identify and successfully target their market. Visit Joe here. http://www.frogsearch.com

Wireless VoIP

Wireless and VoIP have joined forces. Installing a WLAN network card into your computer uses wireless technology. After installing the card, your computer will become "wireless". This means that you will be able to enjoy an Internet connection without the use of cables and cords.

VoIP is the technology that allows the transmission of audio files by transmitting them into data packets across the Internet. By integrating Wireless and VoIP a new generation of audio telecommunications has been birthed. By having a VoIP service and a wireless connection, you can enjoy the best of both worlds- wireless VoIP connections.

Visit http://www.infonet.us for more articles on voip

Wireless networks are activated by what is known as a "hotspot". A hotspot is an area where there is an access point. Wireless connections are basically created by radio signals. An access point is where the network has established their main signal. It is possible for wireless users to basically "jump" from hotspot to hotspot and utilize various networks access points.

The combination of Wireless and VoIP has led to another invention-VoWiFi. VoWiFi stands for Voice over Wireless Fidelity. VoWiFi has also produced the new VoWiFi phones. These phones operate like cell phones, only they use VoIP technology, (transmit over the Internet) and are wireless, operating in various hotspots.

VoWiFi phones are very inexpensive to use, as is all of VoIP technology. It is much cheaper to submit audio as data packets over the Internet and it uses considerably less bandwidth. This is a reason why VoIP technology is gaining in strength and momentum.

Many people are choosing the freedom that is offered by VoIP. VoIP can offer nearly free or free long distance phone calls. Since VoWi Fi operates from hotspot to hotspot or network-to-network, you may think that there are roaming charges involved. Well, this is not the cellular network that you love/hate. There are no roaming charges involved with VoIP. That's right, you can take your VoWiFi phone from hotspot to hotspot, maintaining your connection (provided you easily go from hotspot to hotspot) absolutely free.

You may be wondering why not just use cellular? Why go wireless? Well, for those who travel a lot or are consistently out of their cellular range, roaming charges will apply and can be expensive. By using your VoWiFi in hotspots while you are traveling, you can pick up a connection and make your calls for free.

Be careful not to confuse a VoWiFi phone with a cordless VoIP phone. They are two distinctively different products. A VoWiFi phone will enable you to access hotspots, but a cordless VoIP phone is simply a way to have a cordless phone in your house that is compatible with your VoIP service provider.

VoWiFi phones are hitting the market and companies such as Vonage are soon to debut their new VoWiFi phones.

An interesting trend is the creation of the hybrid phone. If someone is a traveling salesman, or just simply travels frequently and is on their cell phone, then leave their network range- they can take advantage of the new hybrid phone. The hybrid phone, which is part cellular, part VoWiFi, will be able to access hotspots, and pick up a signal. Voila- no more roaming charges!

Wireless VoIP does show promising signs towards the future and many look anxiously awaiting new products and increasing performance by these products. You will have to have a VoIP service provider before you can access VoWiFi. However, you can still find many free hotspots that will give your phone a connection.

Both Wireless and VoIP are relatively new technologies that have a lot of kinks that need to be worked out. The products are hitting the market at increasing speed, while rules, regulations, and security issues seem to be taking second place. That is the nature of telecommunications technology though, and we can expect that the face of Wireless VoIP will look very different in the next few years. Major corporations are already embracing this technology, creating services, phones, hybrid phones and plans that center on VoIP while the FCC races to determine where in fact VoIP technology's classifications lay.

There have been significant issues regarding wireless VoIP and security and 911 services. Well the good news is, that while these issues are battled out, agreed upon, and rewritten, we can still take our phones and lily pad our way from hotspot to hotspot- free of roaming charges.

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VoIP - Voice Over Internet Protocol

Voice over internet protocol or VoIP is beginning to come into it?s own. The promise of cost savings over traditional phone lines is driving this technology into the mainstream. Leveraging your existing broadband connection to save on your monthly phone expense at first glance makes sense. Let?s take a closer look.

First off, can your existing broadband throughput handle the additional strain of digital voice transfer? You can use your favorite search engine (google, msn, yahoo, etc.) and search for ?VoIP broadband test? to get a general idea of the speed of your connection. This is only the first consideration.

How is your existing broadband access coming into your home? If you?re using DSL then using VoIP for your ?primary? phone line may not be an option. DSL availability without existing phone service is not generally available. You should check with your local phone company before canceling service. You just might end up with no phone service, VoIP or traditional. Check first.

If you?re using cable internet access and your connection speed test looks good, find a VoIP provider that allows for a trial period. You may find a good provider that offers up to 30 days for you to cancel if you are not satisfied with voice quality or service.

A VoIP converter and a router will be required to setup your VoIP service. Your modem would plug into your router. Next your converter plugs into your router and your phone base plugs into your converter. Most normal phones should work fine. There isn?t any ?special? phone required to use this type of service. The entire process is pretty painless, but if you should run into any issue, your provider should be ready to help.

If you?re looking to leverage your existing broadband internet access to save money on your monthly phone expense, VoIP can be a great option. Just remember to check your connection, check with your local phone provider (for DSL users) and find a provider that offers a money back trial period. This can be a great way to save money, but don?t be pressured before you know the facts. Even if it doesn?t work out for you now, keep your eye on this technology.

The FCC is already involved in the apparent conflict between VoIP service providers and DSL access. E911 service (Enhanced 911 service) is already being mandated and additional steps will be made to bring this technology further into the mainstream. Make no mistake about this technology. It has arrived and is here to stay.FullService Broadband Provider offers free, unbiased information on broadband and communications technology. Our free service is made possible through Try Right Technology, Inc.

VoIP And E911 Service

In the event of an emergency, are you capable of receiving the emergency response from calling 911 that you normally expect when using a traditional phone line? In the United States as well as Canada, a 911 call placed from your telephone is routed to PSAP (Public Safety Answering Points). Your number and location are reported when this call is placed. Knowledge of the phone number allows the 911 dispatcher to return the call if necessary and the location is of obvious importance to route an emergency response team. But what happens when this same 911 call is placed over a VoIP line?

There have been reported incidents where existing 911 calls placed from VoIP don't get through to the primary PSAP and at times are routed elsewhere. The dispatcher also wasn?t receiving the additional information such as phone number and location. This can slow emergency response services to a critical level.

The FCC has mandated that all new subscribers have access to E911 service. The Enhanced 911 service provides the same level of information to the PSAP as described above. Currently there are some VoIP subscribers who do not have this service. The FCC originally order a disconnect for all existing VoIP users without the E911 service. Recently the FCC has backed off that order (the original deadline for disconnect was Nov 28, 2005). Instead the FCC has now mandated that all 'new' service be equipped with E911 service. Those remaining VoIP providers not offering E911 service will be unable to market or sell new services until such time that they implement the E911 service.

When researching possible VoIP providers, you should make sure that this service is available. The government is mandating that it be available, but as an informed consumer this is information you should know. What good is saving money on your monthly phone bill if it's at the expense of the safety of you and your loved ones?

Other things you should keep in mind is that VoIP runs over your existing broadband connection. If your broadband connection goes down, so does your phone line. Your broadband signal also needs to travel through your modem, so in the event of a power outage, your broadband is down as well. (because the modem would be without power). You may want to review having a battery backup in the case of power outages and perhaps a second traditional phone line or a cellular phone in order to place emergency calls. FullService Broadband Provider offers free, unbiased information on broadband and communications technology. Our free service is made possible through Try Right Technology, Inc.

VoIP And Local Telephone Companies

With VoIP technology entering the mainstream, it brings the possibilities or huge profits for the companies that provide the service. The current promise of cost savings is driving more and more residential and business users to investigate this technology. But the local telephone companies are not going to give up customers without a fight.

There is a current mandate by the US federal government that all VoIP providers offer E911 service. The initial blocking of this information was with the public switched telephone network maintained by the major telephone companies

The next stumbling block is ?naked DSL? or DSL access without local phone service. This service is rare, but without it a residence would not be able to use VoIP as their primary phone service mechanism. You see, DSL is running over your existing phone line provided by your local telephone company. Drop your local phone service and you?ll probably drop your broadband DSL access as well. (Cable broadband access is a viable solution here and the increased cost in cable access should be offset by the reduction on your monthly phone bill)

These are just two fronts in the battle over VoIP. Should companies be compensated for the infrastructures they build? Should E911 service be ?free? and offered as a public service? What about the existing phone service run into our homes? Who pays for those lines to be laid and hooked into the public switched telephone network?

There really are no easy answers to the questions above. The phone companies are not about to give up customers without a fight. They have years and billions of dollars spent in building one of the most reliable communications networks ?currently? known to us.

Is VoIP the next step in the evolving communications industry? How will this play out with phone companies offering internet and TV services and cable providers offering phone and internet service? The line is being blurred and yet the technology pushes forward.

I don?t have the answers, only questions. I know how I?d like to see it all play out, but alas, there is no Nirvana and no, it would seem we all cannot get along. Not when there?s literally billions of dollars at stake. There will be winners and losers as this war rages on, but it is my hope that we, the end users, will, in the end, be better for it. After all, we?ve been down this path many times before and it?s turned out ok.

Remember the advent of the PC and where we?ve gone since then? Remember the first bulky cellular phones vs. what?s available today? Yes, TV?s, radios, computers, phones the list goes on. Technology advances will continue to push us into new directions. I?m sure that in the end, VoIP will be as commonplace as the home computer.

We can leverage this technology today in a cost effective manner. Like any technology how you implement VoIP will make the difference. Whether you?re a residential or business user, there can be an immediate benefit. Check with your communications broker to find out if your existing phone needs can be met cost effectively with VoIP.: FullService Broadband Provider offers free, unbiased information on broadband and communications technology. Our free service is made possible through Try Right Technology, Inc.

Discover Why You Should Make The Switch to VOIP

We have heard of VoIP. We know what it is. But why should we switch from our Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) to VoIP? Why should we join the many major corporations clamouring to transform their business needs to VoIP? Why should we jump on the bandwagon of the many households who are confidently switching to VoIP?

The answers all come down to the many benefits that VoIP offers. The advantages of VoIP have been proven time and time again. The most appealing of all the benefits is that it is cost efficient. VoIP transfers voice into digital data over the Internet. As the data is smaller compared to a standard electric unit, users save on valuable bandwidth. Ever wondered how you could be hooked up to a computer sending messages all across the globe, but yet not having to pay long distance charges? That's how VoIP works. Just think, you will never have to pay for long distance calls ever again!

It does not matter if you plan to use VoIP for your business or for your personal use at home, it is just plain cheaper. Costs for both local and long distance calls can be minimised through VoIP. Many VoIP service providers offer plans that enable you to make unlimited local as well as long distance calls. Check with your provider to ascertain the extent of the coverage of calling areas. With VoIP in your homes, there will be no need for additional phone jacks and wires, just add on to your system, thus saving you money.

Not only will VoIP save you telephone costs, it also integrates all your telephone needs with your computer applications like e-mail, fax, video-phone, and web conferencing. By combining all these into one basic application, you will save on energy and money. Not only that, allowing you to access all the other programs at the same time will provide for greater freedom. This way, even a homeowner will find it simple to utilise all these different products.

Imagine being able to use your own telephone number anywhere that you can access an Internet connection, even overseas. Yes, with VoIP that is now possible. A perfect solution for those always on the move and for those who travel frequently. With VoIP you can cut down on your cell phone expenses. All you need to do is to take your telephone adapter with you anywhere you go. As long as there is a high Internet speed, you can take phone calls on your regular telephone number. This means that you can even take calls while staying overseas or even while going camping. Talk about tremendous flexibility!

Another benefit that comes from using VoIP is the option that allows you to pick your own area code. This is especially good news for those who have family and friends living in a particular area out of state. If you choose your friends' area code, you are giving them the fantastic opportunity of being able to call you whenever they want to without having to pay for long distance charges. All their calls will be charged as local calls. Again, check with your VoIP providers. Some might even extend this service to other countries. Now wouldn't this be a blessing if you have friends and family all around the globe?

Remember all the extra features that you have to pay for with PSTN phone services? Voice Mail, Caller ID, Call Waiting, Call Forwarding, Call Return, Call Block, Do Not Disturb - all these features now come under one package with VoIP. As all the features between VoIP and the Internet are incorporated, you have greater access and control over all your VoIP phone features through the Internet. No more paying for extras.

VoIP is the answer to all our telecommunication needs. The world is making the switch to VoIP. The question is, when will you join this revolution?

Juzaily Ramli is the co-owner of http://www.voip-revolution-info-site.com site, a site dedicated to everything regarding VoIP. Find out how VoIP has represented the most significant paradigm shift since the invention of the telephone in the whole history of modern communications.

VoIP Small Business/Home Business Advantage

Small businesses, home-based businesses, and self-employed individuals have been turning to internet telephone service (also called broadband phone or VOIP) in droves. What is the attraction? As a self-employed, telecommuting, small-business-owning freelance writer, I can provide some insight.

I switched my business to internet phones early in 2005. Despite a few hiccups, I'm not going back to landlines. Internet phone service has too many advantages, which I'll describe for you. I also have some tips for avoiding possible rough patches.

VOIP Internet Phone Small Business and SOHO Advantages

VOIP Advantage No. 1: Look bigger.

* If your small business has to seem large, a virtual PBX with a dial-by-name directory might help. These systems cost thousands to install. But many VOIP companies let you rent this service for less than a hundred dollars a month.

* Give each member of your team their own outside line. With most VOIP companies, each line costs around $10.

* Get one or more 1-800 numbers at around $10/month.

VOIP Advantage No 2. Freedom of movement.

* Freedom to travel. When I went to Sacramento to visit a friend, I ended up extending my stay to a whole month. I couldn't have done that without regular phone access. With VOIP, my Massachusetts number follows me wherever I go.

* Tropical adventures. I regularly work with a virtual assistant company that takes phone calls on their Quebec phone number everyday. That wouldn't be so strange except they're in the Philippines. They're using the same small business VOIP phone service sold right here in North America. True, VOIP companies don't generally guarantee their services will work outside the country of purchase. But the internet is the internet, whether in Fargo or the South Pacific. With the growth of broadband to virtually every non-pariah nation on earth, your second office really could be in a tropical paradise--or year-round ski resort. Isn't that the freedom you hoped being your own boss would bring?

* Telecommuting. Feel a cold coming? Work from home! With VOIP, even the receptionist may be able to telecommute!

* Voicemail by email. You don't have to be by the phone to get voicemail. This is the perfect service for busy people and email addicts. Bonus: the message (in a file similar those used on MP3 players) can be stored indefinitely.

Internet Phone Advantage 3. Cost

* Make lots of calls? Many VOIP providers' unlimited-calling plans cost just $20 to $80 a month.

* Features such as call waiting, caller ID, hold, call forwarding, and multiple ring-to numbers are usually costly extras with landline service. With most VOIP services, those are built-in features.

SOHO VOIP: Tips for Making it Work for Your Business

SOHO VOIP Tip 1. Test internet phoning out before committing.

Yes, some VOIP connections are so scratchy and patchy they sound like cell phones. That's usually because of a problem in the internet connection. Such problems may not be apparent in ordinary web browsing and file downloading. Go with a service that has a 30-day money-back guarantee. Try VOIP out where you live and work. Make sure to try inbound and outbound calls.

Small Business Internet Phone Tip 2. Phoning from a laptop.

With VOIP telephones, you don't need a computer. But you can use your computer as a phone. A piece of software called a "softphone" uses your computer's speakers and microphone. If your laptop is running too many programs at once, calls will deteriorate. Higher-end laptops shouldn't have this problem.

SOHO Internet Phones Tip 3. Go with an established VOIP company.

You don't want to lose your telephone service and possibly your number. Yet only a few VOIP companies have roots before 2000. Choose a service with deep enough roots to survive a VOIP industry shake-out.

Small Biz Internet Phoning Tip 4. Choose a provider carefully before putting the number on your business cards.

Switching VOIP companies is at least as much of a pain as switching landline phone companies. In fact, there is typically no outward number-portability. You can bring a number in, but good luck taking it with you. Researching in early 2005, I found no nationwide VOIP services officially offering outward number portability.

Choose a VOIP provider with a 30-day money-back guarantee. Test the service out thoroughly. One thing is likely: you may want to switch VOIP providers, but you won't want to go back to landline. Joel Walsh, freelance writer and small business owner, recommends you check out Packet8, an established: VOIP service povider: http://www.packet8.net

How Wireless VoIP Phones Work

The functioning of wireless VoIP phones is similar to that of regular VoIP phones but Wireless VoIP phones combine VoIP technology and Wi-Fi (wLAN) systems. Users need to be in the range of the wireless node in order to make and receive calls. And when they are in the Wi-Fi's reach, they are able to do a lot of the same calling functions enabled by regular desktop VoIP phones. When one is already equipped with a wireless local area network as well as VoIP phones, adding wireless VoIP phones can be a logical step.

Wireless VoIP phones are also known as VoWLAN or voice over wireless local network areas and Wi-Fi phones. The working of wireless VoIP phones involves a data network to which Wi-Fi equipment is connected. The network itself can either be independent, or connected to the Internet or the public phone system. The equipment enables high-speed wireless connection to unlimited access points.

Each access point has an antenna to catch the signal from the Wi-Fi equipment and broadcast it in a 300-foot radius or a hot spot. Within the radius all Wi-Fi enabled laptops, personal digital organizers and wireless phones can tune into the signal.

In wireless VoIP phones, the voice is converted into segments of data for transmission from the phone antenna to the Wi-Fi radio waves and then received by the data network. Here the data segments reverse the process to reach an extension or the traditional phone network. In other words, an extension can be carried around.

Although there is no argument about wireless VoIP phones being advantageous, they have their share of shortcomings as well. Fore one, they can not yet completely replace hard-wire VoIP phones mainly due to lack of reliability and the limited functions of wireless phones currently available in comparison to desktop phones.

However the biggest disadvantage in wireless VoIP phones is the limit on the number of simultaneous calls that can be made. The maximum number of calls in each wireless system cannot exceed five or ten. This seriously undermines its call handling capability in a large corporate environment.

Nevertheless, the dramatic reduction in operational costs has made it possible for wireless operators with high quality compressed VoIP to bring the ease and comfort of cordless calling to the VoIP world.

Punks Johnston enjoys writing about wireless VoIP phones.

VoIP: A Constantly Improving Technology

VoIP internet telephony has been a usable communication technology for many years now, but it is only recently that it has become a mainstream communication tool for both residential and business users.

This is largely because of the huge recent improvements of the technology used by VoIP providers. A few years ago, making a call over an IP network would result in fuzzy voice quality, and end up being an awkward and difficult way to communicate.

In the past couple of years, however, faster internet connections, and better technological specifications have made it possible for a VoIP call to sound just as good as if it were made over a traditional telephone line.

Although Voice over IP technology still has a few quirks to be worked out, it is a constantly improving technology. It is already significantly better value than normal telephone lines, and a higher and higher percentage of users are realizing that all the time, allowing the whole industry to flourish and grow.

Of course, with technological standards constantly evolving, new types of VoIP networks are emerging that don't use wires at all. Wireless VoIP phones operate on special digital networks, and can be a lot cheaper to use than normal cell phones.

Jeremy Maddock is the webmaster of TeleClick.ca, a trusted source of telecommunications news.

Types of VoIP Networks

VoIP internet telephony is a highly efficient technology that is used to transmit voice conversations over a data network, through the use of Internet Protocol.

Most consumer VoIP services make use of the internet to transmit the data from one user to another, but any IP network can be used to the same purpose. For example, many cable providers offer their own digital phone services, which transmit data over private IP networks.

Digital phone networks are thought to provide somewhat better service and security that internet based VoIP services. With standard VoIP providers constantly improving their broadband phone services, however, this gap is quickly closing, and the more expensive private digital phone services are finding it harder and harder to compete effectively.

Of course, with technological standards constantly evolving, new types of VoIP networks are emerging that don't use wires at all. Wireless VoIP phones operate on special digital networks, and can be a lot cheaper to use than normal cell phones.

Jeremy Maddock is the webmaster of TeleClick.ca, a trusted source of telecommunications news.

VoIP for Corporate Users

In the constant battle to reduce expenses, and improve the overall bottom line, many corporations have begun to see the potential of VoIP internet telephony as a more efficient way to handle their telecommunications related needs.

When setting up a VoIP infrastructure, most corporations choose to extensively compare VoIP providers, in order to ensure that they're getting the best deal possible.

Large companies and government organizations often elect to create their own private VoIP networks, to guarantee maximal quality and security. Smaller companies generally find it more cost effective to use internet-based broadband phone services, which have now reached an almost perfect level of quality, and are available at extremely low rates.

Jeremy Maddock is the webmaster of TeleClick.ca, a trusted source of telecommunications news.

VOIP - Hype or the future of the telephone?

Since the start of the Internet, sourcing news on voice over IP got a lot easier. There were times you had go to a library in order to attain somewhat relevant to voice over IP - Do you remember? Not a very convenient condition, am I right? Today there's plenty of ideas available because the Cyberspace is growing with each day. The only thing we need is a place to begin.

A smart way to begin your search on voice over IP, especially when you don't know something about the topic, is one of the familiar search engines like Ask Jeeves, MSN or Yahoo. The end of the story? You are puzzled, because the search engines like Ask Jeeves, MSN or Yahoo came back with millions of facts on voice over IP. Now it's on you to come up with the gems and leave the unessential web sites behind. Suggested ideas to begin with are generally so-called "portals". Individuals who have a good education about voice over IP come up with all the advice you may need and most of the time it's free!

Let's say you want to find out anything about voice over IP -- where would you probably go? The best way to come up with professional tips is to join a voice over IP Internet community. People can discuss with experts or write to a voice over IP forum. Let Google operate for you and initiate a research on "voice over IP forum" or "voice over IP group". You'll be given qualified results!

If you need to get your voice over IP information delivered by email, a "electronic magazine (ezine)" would probably be a smart idea. You can subscribe to an ezine exactly as you would do with your newspaper. Sometimes people have to pay a small fee to the provider of the service, but oftentimes a newsletter is free of charge. Due to the fact that there's considerably free voice over IP information accessible on the Internet, you can anticipate a very skilled specialist for your money. On the other hand: you can earn a second paycheck when you have voice over IP knowledge and start your own paid service.

For those who don't feel like reasearching sources on voice over IP, info products are likely a smart idea. Arranged in an ebook or audio interview you'll end up with information you would have spend days to surf on the world wide web.

When you want decent voice over IP advice quickly, current online resources on the Internet are extremely beneficial. Now it's your job to discover all things you need about voice over IP!Thomas Parker is a freelance publisher based in Galveston, Texas. He publishes articles and reports in various ezines and provides VOIP resources on Just Voice Over IP!

Why VoIP And VoIP Video Phones Are The Next Ipod

In the 1970's it was the cassette tape crushing the 8 track. In the 1980's it was the VHS VCR putting an end to the BETA VCR. In the 1990's DVD's started the beginning of the end for Video Tapes. And in the 2000's, mp3 players and the iPod specifically are about to start throwing dirt on the grave of CD's. So, which product or service that's been the standard for years, will be the one that sees it's demise in the 2010's... it's one of the oldest technologies you have in your house. Your telephone.

To be able to replace an old product or service, and get in a majority of households, you have to have 3 things.

1. A need or want for a new product.
2. A new product that is better than the original.
3. A price that the majority of people can afford

Even though it's in it's infancy, Voip (Voice over internet protocol) technology passes all 3 of the above questions with flying colors.

1. How would you like to talk to and see a friend or relative, that lives in another State or Country, anytime you wanted to? No more sending pictures or having to wait to see someone every few years. Now you can see them on a video screen, in real time video, while talking to them on the phone. I'd want that.

2. What if you could not only talk to someone and see them, but you could also have caller id, call waiting id, call waiting, voice mail, call forwarding, conference calls, last call return, call blocking, do not disturb and more, all built right in to your phone, with no additional costs for these services. That's pretty darn good.

3. What if you got ALL of the above mentioned features from #1 and #2, for LESS than you pay now with your current local phone company? What if it was so much less, it saved you HUNDREDS of dollars per year? I can definitely afford that!

And that, my friends, is why VoIP and video phones are the iPod of the next decade. You're local phone company knows it's coming and they are preparing for it. The big internet companies (Yahoo, Google, AOL, etc) are all prepared to launch their versions. The Wall Street Journal predicts 70% of all houses will have voip by the year 2010... that's only 4 years from now! 70%!!!

So, unless you still have an 8 track in your vehicle or are still trying to keep those records from scratching when you play them on your record player, it might be time to look into something new for your home phone service.Jeff Cagan is the owner/webmaster of several free information websites, including http://www.free-voip-information.com .

How VoIP Phones Work

Long distance phone calls will never be the same again thanks to Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP). The basic premise for this technology is to convert analog audio signals into digital data for transmission over the Internet, a technique which allows you to make your phone calls over the internet.

The way VoIP works is pretty straight forward. Whereas the traditional circuit switched technology reserves a dedicated path from a caller to the receiver for the entire duration of the conversation, VoIP converts the voices into data for transmission over data networks. At the receiving end, the data is once again converted back into audio.

The implication of this process is that a regular Internet connection is all one needs to make absolutely free phone calls. In using free VoIP software for Internet phone calls, the role of the telephone company and consequently its charges are completely eliminated.

This path breaking VoIP technology is poised to redefine the very method the world?s phone systems use. Major players in the VoIP world, like Vonage, are already making their presence felt having been on a steady growth for some time. Leading traditional carriers like AT&T are already in the process of incorporating this revolutionary new technology in markets across the US. Simultaneously, regulatory agencies including the FCC are taking a long hard look at VoIP to harness the technology into a more secure format.

Among the multiple advantages attributed to VoIP technology, include the use of the same lines for both data and voice transmissions. With one network, both installation and maintenance expenses are minimized. Compression technology makes it possible for multiple calls, as many as eight, on the same lines as opposed to the circuit-switch systems. Neither is there any compromise on sound clarity.

With VoIP it is also possible for various devices to be inter-linked, thereby enabling added incentives like PC-Telephony. Integrating the phone system to a customer database provides ideal support for customer relationship management or CRM.

Phone calls using VoIP are not subject to toll charges. When both sides have high-speed Internet access and VoIP phones, distance charges don?t apply no matter how long the call duration or distance may be. The possibilities in terms of businesses and consumers to save on costs are therefore staggering. What?s more VoIP can also be utilized in setting up an independent private interoffice networks for main to satellite office communications.Punks Johnston likes writing about VoIP phones. See http://www.voipphonereviews.net for more information.