VoIP :: A New Era?

Following the arrival of VoIP, or Voice Over Internet Protocol, the internet techies have been raving about it, and it is now one of the hottest new technologies around, but what is it and why is it talked about so much?

Well let's begin with what VoIP is. In short, it allows you to make phone calls over the internet using your broadband connection, but has many benefits:

- You can make phone calls from virtually anywhere in the world to anywhere else using your computer.

- Depending on the speed of your connection, you are able to make several calls at the same time.

- If you move home, you are able to keep your same number, even if you move from one side of the world to the other. As you do not have an actual land line, but a converter that has a number assigned, as long as keep the converter with you, you can plug it into any broadband connection and immediately utilize your usual number for making and receiving calls.

Another benefit of VoIP, which many will find useful, and be an attractive feature for many businesses, is the ability to connect to your office phone, whether it be from a hotel or from home. This will enable company personnel to work out of the office, but still have access to all of the office phone system features.

VoIP can also be very cost effective, especially when making long-distance calls. This factor has meant that telephone service providers have to compete with VoIP, in turn ensuring pricing is much more competitive.

At the beginning, the voice quality for those using VoIP was not as good as with a traditional phone line. However the continual technological advancements have meant that the difference in quality is now not as apparent.

So how does it work?

To begin with your voice is converted into bytes so that it can be compressed, split it into packets, and transmitted over the internet. These packets, which contain a collection of information, including the origin, timestamp, and intended destination of the packet, is then converted at the receivers end so that your voice is recognised.

There are many that are already abandoning existing telephone networks and solely using VoIP. For a wealth of information on VoIP take a look at http://www.voip-serviceproviders.info.

Justin Brown owns and runs http://www.voip-serviceproviders.info where visitors can read more information on VoIP service providers. He also runs a site where you can sell or buy any used cars online

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.

Michael Weaver http://www.fullservice-broadband-provider.com

The Full Service Broadband Provider service offers unbiased and informative information on broadband as well as local/long distance and cellular services. This service is made possible through Try Right Technology, Inc.

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 aware of 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. VoIP Phone Services
Get a few Free Marketing Tools for your business. Titus Hoskins Copyright ? 2006. This article may be freely distributed if this resource box stays attached.
 

VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) - An Overview

You've probably at least heard of the word "VoIP", even if you didn't quite understand what all the excitement is about. VoIP stands for "Voice over Internet Protocol" and is going to change the way you think about making long distance phone calls. Basically, VoIP technology turns analog audio signals (i.e. 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 revolutionizing the industry?

Because it means that by getting your hands on some of the free software that's available right now, 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! Perhaps you've seen television commercials for one of the pioneers of VoIP - Vonage. Vonage brands itself as the "broadband telephone company" and offers enticing perks to customers who switch to it's VoIP service such as low-cost 800 numbers and very cheap international rates (fees are waived from the U.S. to Canada, and international calls are as low as .03 cents a minute to overseas locations such as Paris). But Vonage isn't the only company who is interested in harnessing the power of VoIP. AT&T is setting up VoIP calling in several areas of the U.S. and there are other major VoIP players on the scene as well, such as Skype, who is relying on viral advertising to get the word out. Even some regional cable television companies are now offering VoIP telephone service at deep discounts to their customers.

One of the interesting components about VoIP is that there's not just one way to make a VoIP call. There are actually three ways to make a VoIP call:

1) VoIP via ATA: is the most commonly used VoIP method right now. Using the ATA (analog telephone adaptor), 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 so you are able to make VoIP calls. This is how Vonage and AT&T's CallVantage handle VoIP calls. The ATA is free with their services. And using an ATA for VoIP 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 ready to begin making VoIP calls. Depending on your computer, where you live, and what type of Internet connection you have, you may need to also install VoIP software onto your computer, but this shouldn't be too difficult for most people.

2) VoIP via IP Phones:VoIP phones look just like a standard telephone. They have a handset, cradles and buttons. But an VoIP phone uses an RJ-45 Ethernet connector instead of the standard RJ-11 phone connectors. VoIP phones connect directly to your router and all the hardware and software is already built inside to handle your VoIP 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 hotspot. This will allow you to take your VoIP 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 use VoIP technology to "phone home" from anyplace in the world.

3) VoIP via Computer-to-Computer:This is arguably the easiest way to use VoIP. There are no fees for long distance calls and there are several companies offering free or low-cost software right now for you to make use of VoIP technology. All you need is the software, a microphone, speakers, a sound card and a broadband or cable DSL Internet connection, and you can start using VoIP service right away. Except for your normal monthly ISP fee, there is no charge for any computer-to-computer VoIP call, no matter how far away they are. www.skype.com is one such VoIP service. Chances are, you've already 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 VoIP calls are decompressed, reassembled and routed back to a local circuit switch.

VoIP telephony is the wave of the future.

VoIP technology 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 VoIP technology. More and more businesses are already installing VoIP systems, and as VoIP technology makes its way into our everyday language, our lives, and our homes, it will continue to grow in popularity. According to Forrester Research, nearly 5 million U.S. households will have VoIP phone service by the end of 2006. The two biggest advantages of VoIP for home users are price and flexibility. Currently, most VoIP providers offer calling plans similar to that of cell-phone companies, which 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 VoIP service, it can actually amount to a significant savings for you. For example, you may be paying extra for features like:

? Call waiting ? Three way calling ? Call forwarding ? Caller I.D. ? Repeat dial ? Last call return with VoIP

These services come standard. Plus there are some advanced features that make VoIP something worth looking into. With some VoIP 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 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 VoIP prices and services do vary).

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

VoIP FAQ:

How does VoIP / Internet Phone Work?

VoIP converts the voice signal from your telephone into a digital signal that travels over the Internet. If you are calling a regular phone number, the signal is then converted back at the other end. VoIP can allow you to make a call directly from a computer. If you make a VoIP call using a phone with an adaptor, you'll be able to dial just as you always have, and the service provider may also provide a dial tone. If your service assigns you a regular phone number, then a person can call you from his or her regular phone without using special equipment.

Does My Computer Have to be Turned On for VoIP to work?

Not if you are making VoIP calls with a phone and adaptor or special VoIP internet phone, however your broadband Internet connection needs to be active. You can also use your computer while talking on the phone.

Is There a Difference Between Making a Local Call and a Long Distance Call?

Some VoIP providers offer their local service for free, normally only charging for calls to non- subscribers to the VoIP service. Some VoIP internet telephony providers charge for long distance calls to numbers outside your calling area, similar to existing, traditional wireline telephone service. Other VoIP providers permit you to call anywhere at a flat rate for a fixed number of minutes. Your VoIP internet telephony provider may permit you to select an area code different from the area in which you live. This means that if your VoIP provider charges for long distance, then charges could be based on whether you call within your area code rather than geographic area. It also means that people who call you may incur long distance charges depending on their area code and service.

Can I Take My internet Phone Adapter with me when I Travel in order to use VoIP?

You may be able to use your VoIP service wherever you travel as long as you have a broadband Internet connection available. In that case VoIP service would work the same as in your home.

How Do I Know If I have a VoIP Phone Call?

The phone will ring like any other call.

Additional Considerations for VoIP service:

If you're considering replacing your traditional telephone service with VoIP, there are some possible considerations you should be aware of: Some VoIP services will not work during power outages and the VoIP service provider may not offer backup power. It may also be difficult for some VoIP services to seamlessly connect with the 911 emergency dispatch center or to identify the location of VoIP 911 callers. In May 2005, the FCC ordered providers of Internet-based phone calls to certify that their customers will be able to reach an emergency dispatcher when they call 911. Dispatchers also must be able to identify the caller's phone number and location. You can review additional information about VoIP and 911 considerations at www.911voip.org VoIP providers may or may not offer directory assistance/white page listings. Aspects of these considerations may change with new development in Internet Voice technology. You should always check with the potential VoIP service provider to confirm any advantages and limitations to the VoIP service they offer.

To provide reliable VOIP information, David Dunlap has created a comprehensive resouce directory at http://voipservicepro.com where all of your VOIP questions can be answered.

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.

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 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: 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.

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.

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 - What Is It And Why Do I Need It?

In the dynamically changing world of technology, VoIP (Voice Over Internet Protocol) is one of the latest and potentially greatest wonders ever created by the human mind. Watch a techie show, read a techie magazine or talk to any cyber dude and most will acknowledge that VoIP is one of the coolest advancements they've ever been blessed to experience.

On the other hand, for the vast majority who are not techie-nerds and who are looking for a non-techie to English translation of what VoIP has done to induce such high praises, then sit back, relax and read a bit more. In a nutshell, VoIP allows you to make phone calls over the internet, using your computer, to pretty much anywhere on the planet. The VoIP acronym is simply a fancy, smancy technical term for what could just as easily be called an Internet phone.

The miracle of VoIP can be explained in a simple process. The analog voice signals, which are the technical term for the exchange of hot air you have with friends and family while talking for hours on the phone... Sorry, I couldn't resist a bit of humor as I drifted back to days gone by and my youth. Ok, back to business.

VoIP converts the analog voice signals into digital data packets, which allows those packets of data to be transferred via cable lines (the internet) and then they are reconverted into analog voice signals at the other end so that once again, you can understand what is being said. Thanks to internet protocol, VoIP supports real time and two way transmission of conversations.

Sounds Good But How Do I Get Started With VoIP?
First, you have to know what type of internet service you have from your ISP (Internet Service Provider). The reason you need to know the type of service you have is because currently, VoIP works best with a cable or DSL internet connection because they are faster? as in they can download more bits of information (data packets) per second and this allows better sound quality on your internet calls.

Although VoIP services are available for other types of ISP connections like dial up, prepaid and satellite... the technology with VoIP has yet to progress to the point where you will consistently experience crystal clear sound over slower internet connections. However, if you currently live in an area that hasn't been wired for broadband, you shouldn't have to wait too long for the technology to progress to where you can enjoy a quality conversation over a slower internet type connection. However, for the time-being, quality is still a bit patchy without a high speed connection.

How Much is This Internet Telephony, VoIP Thingy Going to Cost Me?
Cost is one of best things about VoIP because VoIP services cost less than residential phone service and much, much less than most monthly cell phone plans. And if your DSL or broadband internet company just happens to be one of companies that currently offers VoIP services, then so much the better because that usually translates into even lower rates than if you used an independent or outside company for your VoIP phone service.

How Reliable Is VoIP?
Because transmission is being done over the Internet, the voice quality is largely dependent on your internet connection speed. And? at this moment in time, regardless of your ISP or connection speed the voice quality still hasn't reached that of normal land based or mobile phones. Plus, although rare, if your internet connection goes down you wouldn't be able to make or receive phone calls and VoIP is still more vulnerable to dropped calls due to a lack of signal strength.

Although VoIP still has a few drawbacks, once you try it you'll quickly realize that they aren't the type of problems that will stop you from wanting to use it? especially when you get your bill each month because with VoIP the savings can be dramatic if you spend a bunch of time on the phone.

How Secure Is VoIP?
Because transmission is in an environment where the dreaded "hacker" reigns supreme this concern is an obvious and legitimate one. Let's face it... although not perfectly secure it's no less secure than sending emails and billions and billions of those are sent each day. And frankly, if you're concerned about others listening in on your phone calls you should toss your cell phone because picking up those signals by the "unscrupulous" is much easier than sabotaging your VoIP phone calls.

If you are overly concerned with security due to the fact that VoIP is a relatively a new technology and that there still exists; although remote, a possibility that those cyber technicians will hijack your calls then you'll just have to wait until you feel these issues are solved before you give VoIP a test drive.

Can You Keep Your Number?
Yes and No! In most instances you will be able to keep your current phone number but just to be safe you should ask this question before signing up for VoIP service. And frankly, in some cases you may be required to change numbers. Oh well? nothings perfect.

This article may be reproduced only in its entirety. Kevin Erickson is a contributing writer to: VoIP | Wifi Hotspots | Trade Show

How VOIP can mask the size of your Business And Save you a Bundle

 by: Yolanda Yvette McDonald

Have you heard the buzz about VOIP (Voice Over Internt Protocol)? Basically, it's like communicating over the phone without a phone. Instead you plug your microphone into your computer log on to a website and "boom" you're talking baby. You may be saying "Hasn't this been around for a while?", and you'd be right. But with the advances recently made to internet technology this once "nice to have" product available to everyone, dial-up or broadband. No long distance charges, no entry fees, no codes to remember and even better, with the better services, you can share applications and web browsers.

The ease and convenience of unlimited global calling from your computer. In addition to voice communication, you can send and receive group or private text messages. When you make a presentation to a group, everyone can see the same visual on their own screen.

VOIP technology is turning telephone technology upside down! VOIP will soon become the preferred method of communication. This technology allows business managers to conduct meetings with full audio-visual interaction from the safety and comfort of their office or home. Uses are limited only by your imagination.

Here are a few of the uses we have discovered VOIP applications being used for:

• One-On-One Tutoring

• Online Computer Classes

• Communicating with kids in college

• Business Teleconferencing

• Board Meetings

• Blueprint review

• International calling (no extra cost)

• Establishing online communities

• Supporting International Downline Members

• Online Church Services

And the list goes on...There is no need for anyone to know that you are working from your home. One person I spoke with is using the system to conduct a computer class. She simply announces the class topic, dates, times and price. When people sign up she sends them an email with her link and a passcode. No one even knows that she is working from home or that she is the only person in her organization. The technology is reliable, clear and rivals or exceeds any of the online learning environments offered by "online schools". Another person is using the system as a means of conducting one-on-one tutoring sessions. Because of the fact that she is no longer constrained to people in her "immediate area" her business has expanded and she has actually had to turn away clients.

There are several service providers and the best by far that we have discovered is ICon Communicator by Madison Dynamics Incorporated. The voice clarity is incredible and the options available set it apart from the rest. The prices are more than reasonable and are often lower than their competition for the same number of "seats" (Seats ore the number of people you can have online with you). You can review their service offer at www.MDIVOIP.com.

Other capable service providers are Go To Meeting and Intranets.

Yvette McDonald has been an IT Analyst for 14 years and has designed an programmed on platforms from the AS/400 to the Internet.

biz@yomack.com

Voip Service Review For Business Users

Making phone calls applying a broadband Internet connection,known as VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol), is becoming so popular with corporations of each size. The prospect of paying a flat fee for unlimited long-distance phone calls is attractive to each company that has struggled to balance the want to conduct business phone calls with the cost of those calls.

Many companies are finding that installation of VoIP phones is simpler than traditional Private Branch eXchange (PBX) systems, since the desk sets can share the Ethernet cables already in place for the desktop computers. Now, I m going to review 3 most popular Voip Services providers who offer full service products primarily aimed at the small to medium sized business telephone market. Such companies typically support multi-line telephone systems, small PBX gateways and hosted VoIP.

Vonage will bring VoIP service without routing calls through your PC. When you sign higher for its DigitalVoice service, the company gives you a phone number in the area code of your option and sends you a free ashtray-size devices device known as an analog telephone adapter or even ATA. You easily plug the adapter into your network router and attach your phone to the adapter, and you're ready to produce calls. If you like, you are able to plug the adapter to a wall jack, connecting each phone in the home.

For corporations that want extensions and services that are even more closely identified with PBXs uncovered in the corporate globe, Vonage isn't a very good option. Its Microscopic Business Project is built on a lone line, similar to a residential line, and does not provide facilities for multiple extensions, call transfers, administrative functions, and the more tasks virtually all corporate users take for granted. 2 more vendors are better suited for the corporate environment.

Vonage Features:

Equipment required: Broadband telephone adapter (included in activation fee) , Motorola VT1005V
$30 activation fee. No contract.
$39.99 termination fee after 14 days (refunded if you return the adapter)
call waiting, caller ID and conference calling.
911 service

TalkSwitch 48-CVA

The TalkSwitch uses your phone company's existing phone lines and phone numbers to connect to the outside world, but uses your Internet connection to connect to other TalkSwitches in your company's remote offices. This setup is simple to install and lets you keep your existing phone numbers and lines. It also lets you keep your existing phone bills, since your long-distance calls still travel over your phone-company lines. (Of course, you could replace your traditional phone lines with Vonage lines if your long-distance volume dictates such a move.)

Where TalkSwitch shines is in its features as a PBX and its ability to connect remote offices and treat them as a single phone system. When two or more TalkSwitches connect through the Internet, the company has a virtual PBX. The offices can make calls to one another by dialing extensions that may be in the same office or at a remote office without incurring long-distance charges.

The same connection can be used to make standard calls to phone numbers that are local to the remote office but long-distance from the calling office. I found this feature worked well, but it requires the person making the call to know whether the number is local to the remote office. That's something many callers won't make the effort to deal with.

TalkSwitch 48-CVA Features:

Price: $1,795
4 lines in
4 VoIP trunks
8 local extensions
8 remote extensions
Expandable to a 16-line, 32-extension phone system by networking up to four 48-CA or 48-CVA units on the LAN
9 Auto Attendants
26 voice mailboxes
Built-in traditional and VoIP trunks for combined network access
Full-featured PBX telephone system
Customer installable and configurable via PC interface
Works with standard analog cordless or corded phones and TalkSwitch TS 100 phone sets

Packet8 Virtual Office

Packet8 is a service provider. It will bring a "virtual office" by means of a hosted PBX that you are able to attach to from any broadband connection. The equipment consists of 1 DTA and 1 phone for every extension. Minimum configuration for a Packet8 system is 3 extensions, however there appears to be no upper limit to the number of extensions. Every DTA and phone combination costs $100, and there exists a $40 activation fee per line.

Because all the extensions attach to the equivalent PBX, calls to extensions and calls to outside amounts are processed just as they usually are in a corporate office. The phones have a huge LCD with soft-buttons for voicemail, don't disturb, and each feature you would expect in a corporate PBX. I personally discovered the system elementary to utilise however as well incredibly flexible. Phone functions are managed applying the phone's LCD and its buttons, while extension assignment, routing, auto-attendant, and system-related functions are managed through the PBX's Web interface.

Packet8's sound quality was incredibly fantastic. Calls between Packet8 VoIP lines were clear with no noticeable delay. Calls between Packet8 VoIP phones and standard phone lines were equally clear. The quality of the overall system was even more than acceptable.

This is the kind of system that fits any virtual office whose employees require to produce lots of long-distance calls. The Packet8 system is particularly well suited to today's distributed virtual businesses. The fact that all the extensions are section of the equivalent system and operate as a seamless phone system puts a consolidated face on the distributed office.

Packet8 Virtual Office Features:

Price: $40 per extension per month, plus setup costs of $100 for equipment and $40 activation fee per line
Unlimited calling within the U.S. and Canada
Full-featured conference bridge for up to 20 participants
Auto-Attendant
Voicemail with message forwarding and e-mail notification
Call transfer and automatic call forwarding
3-way conferencing
Music/messaging on hold
Distinctive ringing for internal/external calls
Caller ID and call-waiting caller ID
Stutter tone notifications
Call park/call pick-up
Rashme Wong has been an Commuciation and Network Analyst for 5 years whose articles on Voip business have appeared on many major Voip websites. You can find more of these at:

www.1voipphoneservice.info