VoIP

What is VoIP?

VoIP, or Voice-Over-Internet Protocol, is literally a phone call placed via an internet connection. VoIP has been a long time coming and early internet phone calls were not that reliable and a bit garbled. But they were free. Over the last decade, VoIP has increasingly made its way into business and is now making its way into more and more homes, as people find better, more affordable ways to communicate with convenience.

An internet protocol is a way in which data is handled over networks. It is typically a standard method for passing data from one point to another point via network cable. Voice-Over-Internet protocol is the method by which one's voice is translated from an analog signal to digital 1s and 0s then transported over broadband network connections, often still for a fraction of the cost of long distance phone calls.

Advantages

According to many experts VoIP is expected to be the phone protocol of choice for the future, alongside the ubiquitous wireless calls. VoIP is flexible, and affordable. As long as one has an internet connection, some free or inexpensive VoIP software on their PC, and a microphone, VoIP is viable. It is a simple communication method to setup. The major phone companies already use the technology that makes VoIP possible. They must move large bundles of long distance digital data known as packet switching quickly and conveniently.

One of the most attractive advantages to VoIP is the ability to receive internet phone calls anywhere you are, as long as you are accessible to the internet. Like wireless technology, this frees you from the constraints posed by a phone line connected to a wall jack.

What You Need

There are a number of ways to currently use VoIP. The easiest and least expensive by far is the PC-to-PC connection. Requirements are a PC that is connected to the internet, preferably with a cable or DSL connection; a microphone, speakers, and VoIP software that can still be had inexpensively, even free in many cases.

An increasingly popular method for VoIP is the use of the proprietary VoIP phones that are becoming a standard for many businesses. Companies such as IBM and Cisco Systems are well known for their VoIP phone systems that are designed to become a seamless addition to any large or small business network. Many bundle video along with them making long-distance conferencing effective and affordable for business.

Disadvantages

Currently, the disadvantages to VoIP are the reliability of packet switching technology to seamlessly transport important voice data streaming, real time conversations over the long haul of network cable. Businesses that rely on such technology must be willing to accept the risks involved with poor internet connections, lost signals, and dropped data packets. The internet as a real time communication tool is still in relative infancy in comparison to the technology behind the analog telephone system that has been in existence for well over a century.

Sara Chambers is a marketing consultant and an internet content manager for http://www.voipweblog.com

VoIP - Basic Assumptions

I thought I'd outline some of the basics of VoIP. I use this service myself and have sold VoIP services to my customers. What I didn't understand until last night is how much I assume. You see my business is mostly web based so my customers read up on VoIP and have a general understanding of the technology before making a purchase.

What I came across in my conversations last night was that some people attracted purely by the cost really don't understand what the trade off's are, what is required and their level of expectation is, in my humble opinion, to high. Now don't get me wrong, I'm a huge fan of VoIP. However, I understand what's involved, how to hook it up as well as the pros and cons of using such a service. For me the cost factor did weigh in when comparing the pros and cons to the cost savings. My level of expectation was brought inline with what VoIP can offer me.

Here are some basic assumptions I was guilty of:

1. When using your broadband internet connection for your computer and VoIP a router is necessary. 2. During a power loss the phone doesn't work unless there is a UPS system in place. 3. ISP goes down, your phone line goes down. 4. Those phone jacks in the house don't work with VoIP. 5. The phone base plugs into the VoIP converter/adapter box which then plugs into your router. If you want multiple phones in multiple rooms, you will need a cordless phone or cordless phone system. (Multiple handsets) 6. E911 is not automatic. You need to check availability 7. Fax machines may not work 8. There can be call interference (echo). Voice quality is good, but not yet as reliable as POTS lines.

Naked DSL or DSL without phone service is not widely available. As such, if your broadband connection is via DSL you may not be able to use VoIP as your primary phone service. Simply put, if your goal is to switch to VoIP and then cancel your existing phone service, you may loose your broadband connection as well.

During my conversation last night their assumptions were much different than mine. Their assumptions were

1. Existing phone jacks will still work with VoIP 2. My corded phone will still work during a power outage just like they do now. 3. I can send/receive faxes without any issue 4. I can plug my VoIP into any room I want 5. 911 service is automatic. Everyone has this. 6. The quality of calls is as good if not better than POTS lines because after all it's coming through the internet right? 7. I don't need any extra equipment - it's just a phone.

After our discussion they were more educated in what VoIP can and cannot provide for them. In the end they choose not to get VoIP service and that's OK. A bundled POTS package was more to their liking and frankly fit them much better than VoIP would have.

Yes, I am a fan of VoIP and yes I believe this technology is here to stay. Having said that, I do not think VoIP is for everyone. Some consider routers, cordless phone(s), checking 911 availability, etc. to be a hassle. They just want to use their existing phone and achieve the 'exact' same results. Well, VoIP is almost there, but still has a way to go. If the cost savings can outweigh your own pros and cons by all means go for it. If not, wait, watch and read up some more.

Ready to give it a go? Good for you, (hope to see you at our web site). Not yet ready? That's OK too. (Still hope to see you at our web site for possible cost savings on your traditional POTS line or cellular plan)

Ok, perhaps a shameless plug in that last part. Use our web site, use someone else's, use a library, do whatever is necessary to educate yourself to make more informed purchasing decisions. It's better to be a little prepared than completely disappointed especially with something you'll use everyday such as your phone service.

FullService Broadband provider. Our free service is possible through Try Right Technology, Inc. We provide unbiased and informative information on broadband and communication products and services

VoIP And Your Broadband Selection

Why is the regional bell operating companies dropping the rates on their DSL residential service? Easy, to gain more customers. Ok, makes sense. But let's look a little closer.

First off, VoIP is making a major push into our homes. I for one have 2 lines in my home. One for business and one for home use. I use VoIP on my business line and my local provider on the other. I also use cable broadband access. Not only is it faster, but when the time comes I can switch my home phone to VoIP and not effect my broadband connection. Yes, the government is mandating the use of 'naked' DSL or DSL without phone service. Expect that in a few years (maybe).

There's the first gotcha. Choose the local telco for DSL access and eliminate the possibility of using VoIP as your primary phone line. Yes you can get VoIP as long as you continue your local telephone service as well. Remember, DSL comes into your
home on your phone line. Deactivate your phone line and without naked DSL you disconnect your internet as well.

Remember deregulation of the 80's? Now the RBOC's (regional bell operating companies) need to open their territories up to competition. Ok. I was putting together a quote for local/long distance for a small business. Luckily they had no need or want
for internet access. I ran the numbers for both our local RBOC as well as a competitor. The competitors? prices beat the RBOC's hands down. But guess what? The competitor is unable to run DSL (even if my customer wanted it). Gotcha again. RBOC's carry a mighty sword :)

So, if I stick with my RBOC, I can't use VoIP as my primary phone service. If I switch to a competitor, I may not be able to get DSL access. Hmmmm conflict or gotcha?

In all fairness, I've sold DSL service from RBOC's as well as other ISP's. The service is fine. Many of my family members use DSL and are very happy with it. It's really not the DSL service itself that gets me frustrated at times, but rather the lack of choices. Why not use the lower cost DSL access and VoIP as a primary phone line? Because the large RBOC's don't want you to, that's why. Oh sure the government is getting involved, but we'll have to wait a few more years. (Maybe longer)

This short article is not intended solely for the informed. Many people are aware of the conflicts, FCC mandates and issues. The lines between phone usage/internet access/television are becoming more and more blurred. Keep a open mind; don't fall
into the marketing traps of the major players. Understand the impact of your technology buying decisions. One just may effect the other. Go DSL, possibly loose VoIP. Switch to an RBOC competitor and quite possibly loose your existing DSL (or ANY DSL for that matter)

Go for cable internet access? I for one would really like to see the cable companies begin to drop their rates. They offer a good service at faster speeds. Unfortunately with the push for DSL (from come on offers starting at around $17 per month) to standard monthly rates around $21-30 per month, it's certainly cheaper than cable internet, which is about $42-47 per month.

What I usually tell my customers is to look at the big picture. Not long ago customers wanted high speed internet at the lowest possible cost. Now what I usually tell my customers, friends and family is to also evaluate their phone usage as well.

One purchase can affect the other. If there is no pressure or need or want to convert to VoIP, then broadband DSL should be just fine. Then there's the people with teenage kids or kids in college. Their phone bills tend to be higher. In some cases the cost may be much higher. If VoIP is going to be on their horizon, then I would recommend staying away from DSL. Do the math. Yes, you may pay a higher per month cost for cable internet service (say $20 a month more) but what would you save on your phone bill by using VoIP? If your phone bill is $40 a month, which you cut to $20 a month using VoIP, it's a wash. The extra savings on the phone bill offsets the higher cost of internet access. If your phone bill is higher, then you start to save more money.

Look at the big picture when deciding your broadband access needs.

FullService Broadband provider. Our free service is possible through Try Right Technology, Inc. We provide unbiased and informative information on broadband and communication products and services.

VOIP - a Threat to the Industry?

VOIP stands for "Voice over Internet Protocol" and it's going to change the way you think about making long distance phone calls. This technology turns analog audio signals (like the sounds you hear when talking on your regular telephone) into a digital signal (which is then transmitted over the Internet.)

So why is VOIP a threat to communications industry? Because it means that by getting your hands on some of the free software that's readily available, you can totally bypass your telephone company, and start making long distance phone calls for free!

This revolutionary technology has the ability to totally change the phone system of the entire world! Maybe you've seen television commercials for one of the pioneers of VOIP - Vonage. It brands itself as the "broadband telephone company", and offers enticing perks to customers who switch to its service, like low-cost 800 numbers, very cheap international rates (fees are waived from the U.S. to Canada, and how about .03 cents a minute to call Paris?)

But Vonage isn't the only company who is interested. AT&T is setting up VOIP calling in several areas of the U.S. and there are other major players on the scene as well, such as Skype, who is relying on viral advertising to get the word out.

One of the really interesting thing about VOIP is that there's not just one way to make a call. There are three:

1) ATA (analog telephone adaptor) - is the most commonly used VOIP method right now. Using the ATA, you connect your regular telephone to your computer or Internet connection. The ATA is an analog-to-digital converter and it takes the analog signal from your phone and converts it into digital data and transmits it over the Internet.

This is how Vonage does it, and AT&T 's CallVantage will be doing it. The ATA is free with their services. And using an ATA is so simple that anyone can do it. Open the box, plug the cable from your phone into the ATA instead of the wall socket, and you're set. Depending on your computer, and where you live, and what type of Internet connection you have, you might have to also install the software onto your computer, but even my grandmother knows how to do that these days.

2) IP Phones - They look just like the phones we are used to. They have a handset, cradles and buttons. But IP phones use an RJ-45 Ethernet connector instead of the standard RJ-11 phone connectors. They connect directly to your router and all the hardware and software is already built inside to handle your IP calls. Look for Wi-Fi IP phones to be available in the near future, which will allow you to make VOIP calls from any Wi-Fi spot. (Can you see the power of that? Just take your IP phone with you when you travel, and stop in at any Internet caf?, hotel or other location where you can use your Wi-Fi laptop, and you can "phone home" wherever home happens to be!

3) Computer-to-Computer. Arguably the easiest way to use VOIP. Not only do you not have to pay for long distance calls, there are several companies that are offering free or low-cost software right now for you to make use of the VOIP technology. All you need is the software, a microphone, speakers a sound card and a broadband or cable DSL Internet connection, and your loved ones sound as if they're in the next room. And, except for your normal monthly ISP fee, there is no charge for any computer- to-computer call.

Most likely, you have been using the VOIP technology without even being aware of it, any time you've made a long distance telephone call recently. Many of the major phone companies are already using VOIP technology to reduce their own bandwidth. It's a simple matter of routing thousands of phone calls through a circuit switch and into an IP gateway. Once received on the other side of the gateway, the calls are decompressed, reassembled and routed back to a local circuit switch.

IP telephony is the wave of the future. It makes sense in terms of ROI, from both an economic and infrastructure point of view. It may take some time, but eventually all of the current circuit-switched networks that are in use today will be replaced by packet-switching technology. More and more businesses are already installing VOIP systems. And as the technology makes our way into our everyday language our lives, and our homes, it will continue to grow in popularity.

Forrester Research predicted that nearly 5 million U.S. households will have VOIP phone service by the end of this year. The two biggest advantages for home users so far are price and flexibility.

Currently, most VOIP phone companies offer plans similar to that of cell-phone companies - what are commonly called "minute-rate" plans for as little as $30 a month. And as with cell-phone plans, you can also get unlimited plans for around $79 a month. With the elimination of long-distances charges, unregulated charges, and all the freebies that come standard with your VOIP service, it can actually amount to a significant savings for you. For example, you may be paying extra for features like: call waiting, 3 way calling, call forwarding, caller I.D., repeat dial & last call return

With VOIP, they come standard. And then there are some advanced features that make VOIP something worth looking into. With some carriers, you can set up call-filtering options, and actually have some control over how calls from certain numbers are handled. For example, you can: forward the call to a particular number, send the call directly to voicemail, give the caller a busy signal, play a "not in service" message and send the caller to a funny rejection hotline

With most VOIP services, you can also check your voice mail on the Internet, or attach messages to an email that is sent directly to your computer or handheld. (By the way, if you're interested in any of these features, not all VOIP companies are created equal, so do a little shopping around first, because prices and services do vary).

The second benefit that makes VOIP so attractive for home and small business users is the flexibility. With VOIP you can make a call anywhere you can get broadband connectivity. Since the IP phones or ATAs broadcast information over the Internet, they can be administered by any provider. For business travelers, this means they can take their phone or ATA with them on the road, and never miss a home phone call!

By using a softphone, (which is client software that loads your VOIP service onto your desktop or laptop), you can make calls from your laptop anywhere in the broadband-connected world, with just a headset and microphone.

We could easily see here that tremendous opportunities also abound for the industry participants. It just depends on how you see VOIP a threat or an opportunity.

Alan Ocab is the Chief Knowledge Officer of VOIPService.Visit http://www.thevoipservice.info

VoIP as Business Solution

VoIP as Business Solution

VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) or widely known as Internet Telephony, have been publicly used for several years now. VoIP itself originated to be used by ARPANET as commercial realizations of the experimental Network Voice Protocol in 1973. But due to many drawbacks it is believe not ready for widespread implementation even till now. Yet despite having few drawbacks left, many of communication pioneers have leaded the way for VoIP to be widely used.

VoIP needs an active Internet connection since the technology itself based on Internet Protocol. The cost generated by VoIP generally lower than the conventional way of communicating. It even practically free in certain situation. This provides valuable aspect to business enterprise due to considerable cost reduction offer by VoIP.

Behind it's complexity of technical structure, VoIP has proven to be easier to implement these days. Although it's quality of sounds may not the best due to latency and jitter problem, many big company installed VoIP as their communicating purpose known as IP Phone. Mostly their investments on VoIP are on internal network that relatively have much bandwidth to spare so jitter and latency can be reduced as much as possible. Outsourcing may the best option if your company core competency is not within Information Technology.

The interesting part of VoIP besides its cost is the ability to route the call anywhere you want. This allows you to communicated anywhere in the world from your computer with just internet line and on fixed cost or even free. Even now due to releases of new 3G technology for mobile phone and mobile phone ability to inter-connect with private and public wireless network, VoIP has been used in mobile phone in many countries.

VoIP as business investment are very much common these days. Since it offers many advantages compare to POTS (Plain Old Telephone System) also the drawbacks are reduced as the technology growth. The beneficial of this system has been widely used even there are free service of VoIP for individual uses such as Google Talk, Skype and many more that makes VoIP gain its own attention in the world.

Check out another articles and news on Digital Binary

I run a blog contain interesting information about Information Technology. You may find another article and news in my website Digital Binary

The Task Of VoIP Security

Voice over Internet protocol (VOIP) is not a new phenomenon. It has been around the business community for many years. But it's increasing popularity among average citizens looking for more affordable and technology-driven options in long distance telephone service is becoming quite the phenomenon. As with any "new" technology on the forefront, often the excitement of getting the product out and available to the public precludes any real consideration for issues such as security flaws. And the consumers often don't consider such problems until it is too late, like when they have fallen victim to a hacker. Just as traditional telephone systems are vulnerable to breaches in security, VOIP has its own, more complex security issues.

There has been very little implementation of VOIP security systems to date. More than likely, this is because there has been no really dangerous attack on an IP system yet. Most customers of VOIP are likely more interested in cost and quality than security at this point, have not heard of any notable attacks. Waiting for that to happen, though, can be a costly and inconvenient mistake. It is wise to consider being proactive in securing VOIP phone systems, just as an organization does not hesitate in securing their other information networks. Though security products seem costly now, as the demand for VOIP systems continue to increase, new VOIP security products will likely be developed down the road that can be incorporated into all-in-one applications to protect entire information networks. This will make the possibility of an organization totally securing its information and voice networks not so costly or daunting to consider.

There are a few characteristics of VOIP that are particularly vulnerable to security breaches, and subscribers to the service should be aware of these. With VOIP, call information is logged on call management boxes, where the VOIP services are also put into action. These boxes are vulnerable to viruses and hackers' attacks, which could result in a loss of data that might be considered confidential to the organization. This could have a snowball effect, compromising an organization's reliability and trust with customers or clients, and cost them a lot of money down the line in data retrieval and security upgrades. That is why it is important to consider VOIP security from the outset, and make certain that any data storage is safely guarded behind a firewall.

Another potentially defenseless aspect of VOIP is the gateway from which voice data is routed between the source and the destination. These gateways are extremely susceptible to attacks by hackers looking to gain the ability to make free telephone calls. Eavesdropping should be yet another worry of those subscribing to VOIP service. Hackers use special tools to find, store, play back, and even alter voice data that they track down. This can have devastating consequences for an organization that might deal in highly sensitive or confidential information. Encrypting VOIP voice traffic, using firewalls, and restricting access by using an alternate domain for VOIP traffic and restricting the use of that domain through an access list are but a few of the ways to cut any VOIP security issues off at the pass.

Not considering the potential security issues that could arise using VOIP phone technology is not wise. Waiting for something to happen and trying to solve the problem after the fact can be costly for an organization, both for its customers and associates and its bottom line. When email was a new and exciting technology, security was not thought much of, until worms and viruses began infesting the inboxes of people worldwide. And now it seems that email security measures are struggling to keep up with the potential dangers. Knowing that there is a potential for disaster, and being proactive in trying to prevent sensitive voice data from being hacked and stolen by investing in VOIP security systems on the outset is the best way to get the most out of VOIP phone technology.

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

VoIP Problems?

Well of course there's VoIP problems, although I think problems is too strong of a word. Instead I would call this VoIP issues. (Just semantics? maybe, read on!)

Some may be old enough to remember making long distance calls where there was static or crackling on the phone line connection. Maybe you remember having to speak LOUDER in order to be heard on the line. Was that a problem? Maybe to you it was but to the companies providing the service, it was a merely a technical issue that needed to be addressed. The issue was addressed and resolved. Now you expect this high quality service right?

Ok, what about cellular phones? Maybe you're old enough to remember when calls were dropped or barely audible. Maybe you remember lugging around those heavy phones. This was a time when a cellular phone was just that, a phone! Was this a problem? Maybe to you it was but to the companies providing the service, it was merely a technical issue that needed to be addressed. The issue was addressed and resolved. Now? Well, there's not too many cellular phones that are 'just' phones. You can surf the internet with them, take pictures, record short video clips, change the ringers, store your address and phone numbers, etc.

For both these 'problems' above, it was a relatively short time frame between 'issue' and resolution. We can draw comparison after comparison between technology and technology issues. I could start talking about echo cancellers, VoIP gateways, multiplexors, etc. and the current circuitry vs. the research and new circuitry on it's way, but that's not the point of this article. The point is simply that 'yes' there are issues with VoIP but also, 'yes' issues are to be expected and 'yes' issues will be resolved.

Some of the most common quality issues are echo and delay. I myself use VoIP over my residential broadband connection and frankly I think it's just fine. I like the service and quality of calls, but yes, at times, the echo and delay can be annoying. This is usually infrequent and not worth me canceling my service. The point I'm trying to make here is that, for me, it's acceptable. Why? Because I understand that this is 'relatively' new. I understand that equipment manufactures are building better technology to address these issues. I understand that the popularity of VoIP will expedite the issue resolution. I've worked in information technology for over 20 years now and certainly understand this progression in technology.

Other issues are in the E911 service and of course there's issues with most residential DSL subscribers. Both these issues are directly with the existing phone companies. The FCC is already involved in both these cases and I believe it will be sooner rather than later for these to be resolved as well.

I for one do have E911 service and I am not a DSL subscriber. So E911 for me is a non-issue and using cable access eliminates having to keep my local telephone company for my primary phone service.

The bottom line, for me, is the cost savings. The cost savings over shadows the occasional echo and delay. E911 has already made its way into my area and using cable internet access removes my dependency on the local telephone company.

VoIP can be a great way for you to save money on your phone service, but don't go into this blindly. Most consumers are intelligent enough to understand the progression that occurs with any technology. It's pretty good as it is and yes I would agree it needs to be better. I also know, heck I'm confident that the quality of service will continue to improve.

So what's the bottom line? Go for it. Find a service that will provide you with a free trial period. Take it for a test drive, kick the tires, etc. The higher your existing monthly phone bill is, the sooner you should try out this service.

It's ok to demand perfection, but perfection takes time. Change is hard and change takes time. Change is upon us and VoIP, in my humble opinion is here to stay. Give it a try, be realistic. Get the information, get your quote, get your free trial period, you really have nothing to loose and quite possibly money to save!

Provided by the FullService Broadband provider. Our free service is possible through Try Right Technology, Inc. We provide unbiased and informative information on broadband and communication products

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

Free VoIP Services: Not Necessarily Free

Though not a new technology, VOIP, or Voice Over Internet Protocol, has recently begun gaining ground on the traditional long distance telephone industry. Simply put, VOIP is the ability for a person to talk on the telephone over an Internet connection. Using a variety of types of equipment to switch analog sound bits into digital data packets, VOIP has made placing long distance phone calls more efficient, more convenient, and much less expensive. Because there is no phone company or long distance provider involved, there are no monthly fees, long distance toll charges, or other charges associated with a traditional telephone bill. There are many VOIP service providers out there, and more cropping up on a regular basis. That means there is a demand for these providers to offer even lower cost services than they already do. In an effort to increase customers, some providers are now offering what they call "free" VOIP services. It is important to be aware that this type of service is not truly free.

A primary problem with so-called free VOIP services is the limitations that are often placed on the service subscriber. Many "free" providers limit the people you can call to only just users of the service you are yourself subscribing to. Sometimes you can call members of other "free" VOIP services. Because the commercial VOIP service providers, such as Vonage, connect to a traditional phone network, paying subscribers can call anyone with a telephone, whether it is connected to the Internet or not. As a subscriber to a "free" service, you can't place calls into the public telephone network, and those on a public network can't call you. This restriction negates the potential convenience that VOIP offers.

There are some "free" VOIP service providers that now offer customers the opportunity to call anyone, whether members of the service or not. This, of course, comes at a price. Service providers can offer this possibility to their customers at arguably lower rates than conventional long-distance providers, both domestically and Internationally, covering most of the globe. Though this is still cheaper (and probably a lot more convenient) than traditional long distance phone service, it is not free, and should not be advertised as such.

Subscribing to any of the free VOIP services are not truly free of cost. Chances are if you are interested in VOIP, you already have a home computer equipped with a soundcard and speakers. But if you want to subscribe to a VOIP service, you are required to have a broadband Internet connection, as dial-up just won't cut it anymore. Though prices for broadband Internet have come down, it is still a little more costly than dial-up, averaging $30-$40 per month. In addition, you will probably have to invest in a microphone that is specially equipped with an analog-to-digital converter and a USB connector. This will allow you to talk through your home computer when you place calls. Or, you can purchase an IP phone or headset that plugs directly into your home computer. This allows you to talk into a handset or headset, and have a dialing mechanism, much like a traditional telephone. Many IP phones come with a number of added features. Though these are one-time start-up purchases, it is important to note that service providers claiming to offer totally free VOIP services can't really fulfill their claims.

VOIP isn't too good to be true. It has the potential to forever alter the course of telephone communications. It is flexible (you can travel with your phone and phone number around the world), it is more than reasonably priced for the services you receive (services often include Call Waiting and Caller ID as part of standard service - features you pay extra monthly charges for with a traditional phone company), and it is convenient (you can check your voice mail from your email account, the voice reception is often clearer, and you don't get dropped calls like you do with a mobile phone). But, as with many other products and services, you get what you pay for. So, beware of "free" VOIP services. They are not always free, and if they are, they are most likely very limited in what they can offer their customers. Learn the essential information for picking the Voip provider / services at Free Voip Services

VoIP Communications Set Up Demo With Circuit City's

1-866-904-VoIP
893 Highway 138 W Suites 10
Stockbridge, GA 30281

December 9, 2004

Circuit City Store
ATTN: General Manager/Mr. Will Hughes
1906 Mt Zion Road
Morrow, GA 30360

Dear Mr. Will Hughes:
Per request by Mrs. Sara, at the Circuit City Corporate Main Office at 1.800.251.2665 at 1054 am, on Dec 8, 2004, suggested and approved that we contact you on my company letter head about setting up a VoIP Communications Demo Display VideoPhone in your store area during the holiday. (All Metro-Outlet) With these arrangements, the VoIP Communications will conduct media ads with your store demo, for the shopper to visit and see the display VideoPhones.

We are an Atlanta start-up VoIP Communications with Escape International and 8x8, Inc. (Nasdaq: EGHT), the Packet8 Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) and videophone communications service provider, announced the availability of its DTA Broadband Phone Adapter and DV 326 Broadband Videophone at VoIP Communications http://www.voippacket8.net with Escape International Company: http://www.escapeinternational.com/, whose broadband VideoPhone service with Freedom Unlimited U.S & Canada Video calling broadband software lets anyone become a small-scale Internet business provider, Virtual Office hosted PBX Services and a Home-based business.

The Founder, Chairman and CEO of VoIP Communications, Nate Perkins, says it's close to letting people create their own miniature phone networks as well as a small home business.

RECOMMENDED: By Consumer Guru CLACK HOWARD Internet Phone Line Save Money Good Deals available from Packet8 AJC ( Atlanta Journal & Constitution) 11/20/04

The Videophones allow subscribers to see each other as they speak. The number Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) households is expected to mushroom to 18 million by 2008 as service quality increases, already inexpensive rates continue to drop and more homes get broadband, which VoIP operators usually require.

Mr. Hughes, if you agrees with the agreements, we will only need a very small area to display the VideoPhones demo. We have enclosed the companys coupon and PRESS RELEASE for your and your staff information.
If you need any more information, please call me at 678.565.8633 or email: CEO @ voipcommunications.com

Sincerely,

Nate Perkins
VoIP Communications

893 Highway 138 W Suites 10. Stockbridge, Georgia 30281 1.866.904.VoIP (8647)
1-866-904-VoIP
893 Highway 138 W Suites 10
Stockbridge, GA 30281

December 9, 2004

Circuit City Store
ATTN: General Manager/Mr. Will Hughes
1906 Mt Zion Road
Morrow, GA 30360

Dear Mr. Will Hughes:
Per request by Mrs. Sara, at the Circuit City Corporate Main Office at 1.800.251.2665 at 1054 am, on Dec 8, 2004, suggested and approved that we contact you on my company letter head about setting up a VoIP Communications Demo Display VideoPhone in your store area during the holiday. (All Metro-Outlet) With these arrangements, the VoIP Communications will conduct media ads with your store demo, for the shopper to visit and see the display VideoPhones.

We are an Atlanta start-up VoIP Communications with Escape International and 8x8, Inc. (Nasdaq: EGHT), the Packet8 Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) and videophone communications service provider, announced the availability of its DTA Broadband Phone Adapter and DV 326 Broadband Videophone at VoIP Communications http://www.voippacket8.net with Escape International Company: http://www.escapeinternational.com/, whose broadband VideoPhone service with Freedom Unlimited U.S & Canada Video calling broadband software lets anyone become a small-scale Internet business provider, Virtual Office hosted PBX Services and a Home-based business.

The Founder, Chairman and CEO of VoIP Communications, Nate Perkins, says it's close to letting people create their own miniature phone networks as well as a small home business.

RECOMMENDED: By Consumer Guru CLACK HOWARD Internet Phone Line Save Money Good Deals available from Packet8 AJC ( Atlanta Journal & Constitution) 11/20/04

The Videophones allow subscribers to see each other as they speak. The number Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) households is expected to mushroom to 18 million by 2008 as service quality increases, already inexpensive rates continue to drop and more homes get broadband, which VoIP operators usually require.

Mr. Hughes, if you agrees with the agreements, we will only need a very small area to display the VideoPhones demo. We have enclosed the companys coupon and PRESS RELEASE for your and your staff information.
If you need any more information, please call me at 678.565.8633 or email: CEO @ voipcommunications.com

Sincerely,

Nate Perkins
VoIP Communications

893 Highway 138 W Suites 10. Stockbridge, Georgia 30281 1.866.904.VoIP (8647)

http://www.voippacket8.net