What you MUST know about VOIP

VoIP (Voice over internet protocol) represents the next generation of Phone services. The VoIP technology uses a high speed internet connection (such as DSL or cable) rather than a traditional phone line, for the transmission of voice signals. The use of this technology costs significantly less than the use of traditional phone lines. Think of it as having to send a document to someone by fax versus sending the same document by e-mail. Which option is cheaper? The cost of faxing a document depends on where you're faxing it to and how many pages you're faxing (and therefore how long you'll use the phone line). E-mailing the document costs the same thing regardless of where you're e-mailing it to and how many pages you're e-mailing. The same applies to VOIP.

There are several providers currently offering VOIP phone services such as Vonage, lingo and packet8 among others. The calling plans range in price from $10 to $30 a month. Most have unlimited long distance calling and free features such as call waiting, caller ID, voicemail, etc without additional costs. The cost advantage of VOIP is such that traditional phone providers such as Verizon and AT&T have already begun to offer VOIP phone services which also cost significant less than their regular plans. Therefore, the VolP technology is set to bring lower prices and improved services to the consumer as a result of more competition.

There are generally three kinds of VOIP calling: 1)_ATA (Analog telephone adaptors): your phone is plugged into special router which is in turn connected to the internet. This router converts analog signals from your phone into digital packets of data which can then be sent through a high speed internet connection. If the person you're calling also has VOIP, these packets of data travel exclusively through the internet all the way to the other side of the line. If you're calling a regular phone, then a part of the journey must be made through regular phone lines. That's why there is a cost involved. It is this kind of VOIP that providers such as Vonage, lingo, packet8 and others rely in order to provide their services. Because your "voice" travels mostly through the internet the cost of the calls is much lower, and therefore the calling plans are much cheaper.

2)_IP(internet protocol) phones: these phones look exactly like standard phones, but instead of connecting to a normal phone cable, they connect to an Ethernet cable which in turn plugs directly into your router or broadband modem. This way the conversion of your voice into digital packets of data happens inside the phone, rather than in a VOIP router.

3)_ Computer to computer: this is currently the most popular kind of VOIP calling. Computer programs such as Skype, allow you to talk to anyone anywhere in the world for free! All that is needed is a microphone and a speaker on each of the computers. Since this technology uses exclusively the internet connection to get from one end of the line to the other, there is no cost for the user. It's like exchanging e-mails messages, except that packets of data containing voice rather than words are traveling through the internet. For a small fee, these programs also allow you to make calls to regular phones

One good feature of VOIP is that you're not tied to a particular area code. Suppose you live in New York but most of your friends and family live in Los Angeles. You could choose to have an area code from Los Angeles added to your phone, so that all the calls that originate in LA count as local calls rather than long distance calls. That way, your friends and family pay only for a local call even though they're calling you from across the country.

For more information about VOIP and tips on choosing a VOIP provider visit http://www.voip-basics.info

About the author: Lucas Velloso enjoys writing about VOIP. Visit http://www.voip-basics.info where you'll find everything you need to know about VOIP

Understanding Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP)

Some services using VoIP may only allow you to call other people using the same service, but others may allow you to call anyone who has a telephone number - including local, long distance, mobile, and international numbers. Also, while some services only work over your computer or a special VoIP phone, other services allow you to use a traditional phone through an adaptor. The calls are made over a data network like the internet. VoIP converts the voice to a digital signal that can travel over the internet then converts it back to voice once it reaches the other end. This enables you to speak to anyone with a regular phone number. When placing a VoIP call using a phone with an adapter, you'll hear a dial tone and dial just as you always have. VoIP may also allow you to make a call directly from a computer using a conventional telephone or a microphone. Placing a Call All VoIP Services are a bit different in the way you place a call. If you have an adapter connected to your internet Connection you can-just pick up your phone and dial the number. The call goes through your local phone company to a VoIP provider. The call proceeds over the internet to the called party's local telephone company and the call is completed. You can also plug a microphone headset into your computer, this is a good option it you have a slow (dial-up) connection as it cuts out some of the echo commonly heard in slow connections. Utilizing a headset, the number is dialed using a keyboard & routed through your cable modem.

Equipment Needed for VoIP High-Speed Broadband connection, IP Phones (Softphones will require PC) or Analog Telephone Adapters (ATAs) and VoIP Service Provider, currently there are 505 in the U.S. alone, the best known probably being Vonage.

When you looking for a VoIP provider be sure to check what the they offer, some companies allow you to make calls only to other subscribers of their service. But most companies will allow you to call anyone, land line, cellular, local, long distance and some companies even allow you to talk to more than one person at a time.

Many people today use their cell phone as their primary phone, with VoIP you could eliminate your landline phone altogether. You can call anyone, any where in the world and talk along as you want. VoIP calls do not have to pay toll or distance charges so the possibilties for consumers and small business to save money are the most attractive feature of Voice over Internet Proticol.

About the Author <br /> Christine is the owner of http://onlinevoipinfo.com<br /> which deals specifically with PC to Phone and PC to PC VoIP. The site includes a comprehensive information on VoIP.

The Great Opportunity For VoIP Resellers

Making telephone calls over the Internet using voice over Internet protocol (VOIP) is an efficient and cost saving technology that is in a position to forever change telephone communications. VOIP is not a new phenomenon, having been in use in the business world for quite a few years. In the last couple of years, though, it has begun to catch on with consumers as a way to efficiently combine all their modes communication in their homes, for either their work lives or personal lives, and avoid paying high charges as they have with long distance companies. With the many products and services available to customers, it seems like a lucrative business to be a part of. VOIP resellers have the opportunity to pass reasonably priced products and services on to consumers while at the same time making a great profit and being a part of a communications revolution.

VOIP technology provides the customer with an exciting opportunity to experience low priced telephone service. Subscribers to VOIP services have a bevy of options from which they can choose. The ability to subscribe to VOIP is dependent on the customer having a reliable broadband Internet connection, and will require the customer to either purchase a few new pieces of equipment or software that will enable VOIP to work from the home computer. Customers can choose to use a specially equipped microphone hooked up to the computer, making the experience like that of a speakerphone. The customer can use his or her home telephone with the service, if he or she purchases an analog telephone adapter that converts the analog audio into digital data. They can also buy an IP phone that is plugs directly into the computer and is ready for immediate use. There is also a wireless option, and VOIP cell phones are beginning to make an appearance on the market. It's important for the customer to be aware that VOIP phone service isn't that dissimilar to traditional telephone service, except that the cabling has changed. Once the customer has the necessary equipment for VOIP, he or she then needs to search for a reliable, affordable, and dependable service provider. This is where the VOIP reseller can step in. A VOIP reseller has an opportunity to provide affordable phone service to customers beyond the startup costs, while at the same time getting in on a potential technology and business boom.

A VOIP reseller does just that, he or she resells minutes to VOIP customers that have been purchased from a VOIP provider. These resold minutes are marked up to allow the VOIP reseller a reasonable profit. The reseller becomes the liaison between the service provider and the customer, providing customer service and resolving issues. It is important to note that for anyone interested in becoming a VOIP reseller, there is often a considerable investment in the beginning. A new reseller will have to purchase software and equipment that will enable his or her to provide service to his or her customers. However, there are services available for the potential reseller that provide their own gateways and servers while giving him or her the opportunity to be their own business owner without the expensive startup costs. These firms provide software that make it possible for a VOIP reseller to establish and maintain a set customer base. Customers can access their accounts, contact the reseller with issues or questions, and view their bills. These firms also help to alleviate the big startup cost by offering not only their servers and gateways, but also billing systems that would normally cost a hefty sum to purchase. All of this is offered in a secured interface.

VOIP is primed to take the place of the traditional telephone system. There are tremendous moneymaking opportunities to be sought for someone that is good at marketing and selling a product. There are opportunities to provide service and support to customers while being self-employed. For a VOIP reseller, the opportunities are tremendous.

Learn the essential information for picking the Voip provider / services at Voip Resellers

VoIP News - Vonage Tries To Solve Its Problems With IPO

Vonage announced on Feb 8 that it intends to issue an IPO in an attempt to raise $250 million. This move underlines some of the problems mainstream VoIP providers are having.

The problem for Vonage is that while its subscriber base is growing, it is still losing money. According to the IPO filing, Vonage lost $189.6 million on sales of $174 million in the first nine months of 2005.

The company spends so much on marketing that it is almost impossible to make money from low spending subscribers. Average single line subscribers paid $26.73 per month in 2005. But the company spent $213.77 per subscriber on marketing. That means it would take more than 8 months to recoup their up front marketing costs.

Market share is also shrinking and the competition is ramping up. Google, Yahoo and Microsoft are all aggressively entering the market.

They are also getting squeezed on the expense side. Currently VOiP providers like Vonage offload the carrier costs to internet subscribers. But the major telcos are lobbying hard for approval to charge providers like Vonage extra tool fees for the ramped up level of service required to make wide scale VOiP possible.

Pure VOiP providers like Vonage are eating into the traditional market of the telcos. So it seems almost inevitable that the telcos will retaliate in various ways to either hold on to their customer base, or convert customers to their own services.

**Other developments in VoIP

Microsoft - Gates and company will be entering the VoIP market aggressively in 2006. The new version of MSN Messenger, called Windows Live Messenger will have advanced VoIP capabilities, and an interface with the traditional phone system through an agreement with MCI. This alliance with MCI is Microsoft's way of avoiding the threat of telco toll charges.

As with Skype, PC to PC calls will be free using Windows Live Messenger. Microsoft and MCI claim that PC to landline calls will cost only a few cents a minute, and much less than some other alternatives currently being developed.

Google - Much like Microsoft and Yahoo, Google is putting the pieces together to offer a comprehensive PC to PC chat/voice service, as well as a PC to landline service. That would take Google just one relatively small step from becoming a complete VoIP provider.

Google released Google Talk last August, and recently announced the release of Gmail Chat which integrates GMail and Chat. For voice capability, users still have to download the Google Talk client, but it is just a matter of time before there is one client for all three services (mail, chat, talk).

The company has also confirmed that it is working with VoiceOne, a Florida company owned by VoIP Inc. VoiceOne is providing Google with "click-to-call" services. This free service lets people speak directly to Adwords advertisers who come up in searches, with the costs, presumably, being covered by advertisers.

Yahoo - Yahoo announced in December that they will offer two new fee-based voice over IP services so customers can make voice calls from a PC to a telephone and receive phone calls on a PC.

The new VoIP services are called Phone Out and Phone In and are part of Yahoo Messenger with Voice.

Phone Out will let users to make calls from a PC to traditional or mobile phones in more than 180 countries. Projected cost will be $0.01 per minute to the U.S. and less than $0.02 per minute to more than 30 international countries.

Phone In will let users receive calls on a PC from traditional or mobile phones for $2.99 a month. Multiple phone numbers will be available for travelers, and phone numbers in different countries will be available so people who call them from that area will only pay for a local call. This is very similar to Skype's current offerings (see below).

Skype - EBay bought Skype in 2005 for $2.6 billion, so chances are they have big plans for the service. Skype offers a range of VoIP services, but so far all require at least one user be tethered to a PC with a broadband connection. Services include free computer-to-computer calls, as well as paid calls from a PC to the public network (SkypeOut) or public phone to PC (SkypeIn).

With the release of Skype 2.0, the company has announced a number of enhancements to their core service such as teleconferencing capability, and video calling. Another useful service is Skype VoiceMail. Callers from anywhere can call your number and leave a voice mail on your computer.

Judging from their web-centric approach to VoIP, Skype does not have plans to directly compete with the telcos for traditional phone business. However, they are well-positioned to offer click-to-call services to everything from community and dating websites, to EBay itself.

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How Using A VoIP Phone Service Can Cost You Your Life

VoIP Phones are all the rage. These Internet phones are becoming increasingly popular with the general public as well as among the technologically gifted avant-garde i.e. geeksRus. Chances are high you know someone who uses one or you may even use one yourself.

But did you know it can cost you your life?

We will get to this life-threatening issue later but first you should have a basic understanding of what a VoIP phone is and how it works.

VoIP stands for Voice over Internet Protocol. These phones are also commonly referred to as Voice over IP or Voice over Internet. VoIP, or Voice over Internet Protocol is a way of using analog audio signals, like on your regular phone, and turning these signals into digital data that's transmitted over the Internet instead of over conventional phone lines.

How does it Work?

A Voip Phone Service can work on any computer that has broadband connectivity. If you have a headset/microphone, along with a Voip phone system set-up or software program installed on your computer, you can place calls from your computer or laptop to anywhere in the broadband-connected world. Assuming that your friends have the same software set-up or have a Voip Phone Service from many of the commercial providers, you should be able to communicate, i.e. talk to each other.

It basically works by sending small packets of data from one computer to another over the Internet. And since it uses the Internet, the route these data transfers take is as varied and as wide as the Internet itself. You call a phone number and the data is sent to your VoIP company's call processor. The call processor connects you to your friend's phone and a session is formed between your computer and your friend's computer. Your call can now be handled as if it were an e-mail or a web page but each system must have the same protocol in order for you to communicate or talk.

This may be over-simplifying things a bit, but this method is less expensive than a conventional phone system.

Many VoIP companies offer many services that a traditional phone company will charge you an arm or leg for! These include: Caller ID, Call transfer, Call waiting, Return call, Repeat dial, and Three-way calling. And because it is over the Internet you can check your voicemail via the Web - you may even attach messages that's sent to your computer or handheld.

VoIP Phone Services have many advantages over the traditional system, mainly its cheap price and availability or access. As the broadband world increases, VoIP phones may become even more popular.

So what's the Problem with using VoIP Phones?

There are some major hurdles Voip Phone users should be awareof and it is where the life saving advice comes in.

The VoIP Phone is only as good as the Internet system or computer you're using. There may be down times, for example, if you lose your power - a Voip phone will not work, whereas a regular wall phone or conventional phone will. In many natural disasters, be it a blizzard, tornado or hurricane, the power is sometimes the first utility that fails. Communications often become critical in these situations and being stuck with only a powerless VoIP phone may pose a problem. Assuming, of course, you don't have your VoIP Phone hooked up to a portable Wi-Fi battery operated laptop!

You must also keep in mind that your laptop or computer must be able to handle the phone calls, other programs running on your system may disrupt or distort your voip signals if your computer is overloaded or not powerful enough.

Next, perhaps the most important concern, Emergency 911 calls are a real challenge with VoIP. VoIP phones uses IP-addressed phone numbers and not NANP phone numbers. There's no way to tell the geographic location with an IP address; thus routing the emergency call may pose a problem for 911 operators. Obviously, this is not good in an emergency of any kind!

No doubt this hurdle will be fixed in the very near future as Voip Phones become more commonplace and integrated neatly in the wireless Wi-Fi systems/networks around the world. But for now, it is something every VOIP Phone user should be made aware of and prepare for in the case your VOIP phone becomes your only lifeline.

Another challenge, as more and more voip phones come online - there is no world-wide standard in place. This would include hardware and protocols that would make this system work anywhere in the world.

Despite these hurdles and challenges, many believe VoIP Phone Services will eventually replace the traditional phone lines over time. But the revolution is just starting! According to the Forrester Research Group only 5 million U.S. households will be using VoIP phones by the end of 2006.

However, it doesn't take a Crystal Ball or even the Forrester Research Group to tell us we are becoming more and more of a 'wireless world'. VoIP Phones will find themselves 'center stage' in our ever increasing technologically enhanced universe. No doubt, neatly blended into some fully loaded portable, Video/VoIP Phone, XM radio, Search Engine, Wi-Fi, GPS Emergency Beacon, Computer Handheld Contraction. As long as we can keep our 'heads attached' until this technotopia item comes along - we should be ok.

Hey, when Google finally decides to build that Google Box, maybe someone should suggest they load it up with a few extra goodies. Can we talk?

The author runs a modest website on Bizware and Business Solutions - including a section on VoIP Phone Services. http://www.bizwaremagic.com/Voip_Phone_Service.htm Titus Hoskins Copyright ? 2006. This article may be freely distributed if this resource box stays attached

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

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

Voip - Voice Over IP and Business: Is It For You?

 

 VoIP allows users to make phone calls using their high-speed Internet connection. This
translates into free, or very low cost long-distance calling. Because VoIP uses the power of
the Internet, traditional phone companies are left completely out of the loop. Of course, now
that the idea of VoIP is catching on more and more, traditional phone companies are developing
and offering their own VoIP options so as not to be left out. From the consumer's point of
view, this competition is keeping options open and pricing low. For businesses, this is
particularly good news, since many VoIP providers will want the business of business--this is a
huge market, which providers are aware, of, so the savvy businessperson will take advantage of
this, conduct thorough research, and seek out the best possible option to meet the company's
needs.

What are the Pros to Using VoIP?

Cost is a number one factor. If your business does a high volume of long distance calling, this
can be an extremely affordable way to go. Another positive is that the future of long distance
calling is VoIP. As time passes, more and more options will be available and the market will
become even more competitive. It is also easy to use, although a business set-up will be more
complicated than a home set-up.

What are the Cons?

One disadvantage that many users report is that there tends to be an "echo" when using VoIP.
How much of a disadvantage this is may depend on the user. There can also be a slight lag at
the beginning of the conversation.

Another potential disadvantage is that the technology is fairly new. As VoIP becomes standard,
improvements will take place. In the meantime, it is up to each business to determine if this
is a way to go.

Also, because VoIP operates through your Internet connection, should you lose Internet service
for whatever reason or power, you will not have phone access until the service or power is
restored.

Is VoIP Right for my Business?

As with any business decision, you should examine your needs and available services before
making a purchasing decision. VoIP may produce substantial savings, but it could also produce
substantial headaches. Whether or not your company can navigate potential glitches with minimal
interruption is something you need to determine. Many traditional service providers offer
competitive pricing, and the security of the existing structure may not be worth the potential
problems with VoIP. It is also necessary to price and compare the technical requirements; will
your existing structure support VoIP, or will the investment in technology offset the potential
savings?

VoIP Business Options

On the bright side, because VoIP is a growing service, many companies provide business
solutions and the offers and pricing are competitive. One thing to consider as you compare
options is contract terms. Because the technology is expanding, it is wise to avoid any long-
term contract, as a better option may come along in the meantime. A variety of companies offer
business solutions. The following list is just a few:

Sprint: http://www.sprint.com/business/products/categories/voip.jsp

Lingo: http://www.lingo.com/voip/business/unlimited_internet_phone_ service.jsp

Quest: http://www.qwest.com/largebusiness/products/voip/

Pipex: http://www.pipex.net/products/voip/

How to Get Set Up for VoIP The technology required will depend on the service you choose. There
are three types of VoIP methods.

ATA stands for analog telephone adaptor. It connects to your computer or Internet
connection and uses regular phone.

IP phones are special phones that look like traditional phones, but they connect with
an Ethernet connector.

Computer-to-computer is an easy way to use VoIP and long distance calls are free; you
only pay for the software. While this method can work in a business setting, it may not be the
best solution, even though it is very cost effective.

VoIP requires a high-speed Internet connection, and for business purposes, your set-up needs to
be able to handle the additional use that VoIP incurs. Essentially, there is no "one size fits
all" set-up guide for business VoIP options. The service you choose and your company's
individual requirements will determine what you will need.

Andrew Kelly is a Technology Consultant who helps keep businesses at the leading edge of technology.
For more great tips and resources on everything voIP visit:
http://www.voipvoiceoveripcenter.com
Andrew Kelly-- has been a leading Comminications & IT Consultant for 15 years, Andrew's current key roles are keeping Medical & Dental industries at the cutting edge of Technology and two steps ahead of the rest.